Old-fashioned parade Get ready for a chocolate highDeath by Chocolate returns to give the community another boost By JULIANA A. TORRESLARGO Members of the Rotary Club of Largo are gearing up for their premier fundraiser of the year: an all-you-can-eat sampling of wine, champagne, and, most importantly, chocolate. Death by Chocolate will gather 24 of the areas best chocolatiers on Friday, Dec. 7, 7 to 9 p.m., at the Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Drive. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door and support youth organizations as well as Largo area schools. We have a lot of great chocolatiers this year as well as the silent auction (items). Were looking forward to it, said club president Eric Coyner. Its just a great evening out. Coyner said the event would feature several of the most fun restaurants and businesses in the area, including E&E Stakeout Grill, Melitta Coffee, Fridas Caf, Island Way Grill, Cakes by Design, Coldstone Creamery, GateauOChocolat, Edible Arrangements, Dove Chocolate and Village Inn. This year, I think itll be a great event, he said. Along with the chocolate tastings, the event features live entertainment, a silent auction and door prizes. The club also will be selling 200 goodie bags, valued at $100, for $5. The location of the event at the cultural center is significant as well. Largo Central Park has been lit with a million LED lights, making it an ideal backdrop for the holidays. After indulging in chocolates, guests can take a stroll under the lights. Hopefully the weather will be somewhat cool, Coyner said. It should be a great night. The Rotary Club puts a lot of work into the event in order to raise funds for several of the organizations it supports throughout the year, he said. We hope to have a lot of people. Its a great fundraiser for us and for the community, Coyner said. The money all goes to great causes. Beneficiaries include Largo Public Library, Largos Day of Good Deeds, the Smuppets, Community Tampa Bay, Largo Fire Rescue Explorer Post No. 941, the Interact Club at Largo High School, Ponce De Leon Elementary School, Largo Middle School, Operation PAR, Suncoast Performing Arts Foundation, city of Largo summer camps, Largo Little By JULIANA A. TORRESLARGO Santa Claus sat in a big red chair, set up in a tent amidst the twinkling glow of Largo Central Park lit up for the holidays, and met hundreds of children during his visit to Largo on Dec. 1. Santas long white beard was real, he wore an authentic red wool coat and hat, trimmed in white, and he carried jingle bells. But the vast majority of the children and their parents failed to realize that Santas big black boots were special. One was made of carbon fiber, built to help him walk on a leg that will eventually need to be amputated. The other black boot is made of only foam, covering a prosthetic of a leg that already had been amputated below the knee. John Russell, 63, of Clearwater said that if children ask him about his leg, noticing only if they seen him out of his Santa chair, his answer is simple: his leg got sick and the doctors had to cut it off. They understand that, simple words, he said. But they never notice as they sit on his lap, ask for presents and pose for a picture. Im talking thousands of people sitting on my lap. Nobody has ever noticed that I wear a prosthetic, he said. This season will be Russells third to don the red suit, a job that he loves passionately and takes very seriously. His history with a prosthetic goes back 17 years. See SANTA, page 4A Features Business . . . . . . . . . .14A Classieds . . . . . . . . .5-7B Community . . . . . . . . .7-9A County . . . . . . . . . . .4-6A Entertainment . . . . . . . .1-4B Faith & family . . . . . . . .15A Holidays . . . . . . . . . .16A Just for fun . . . . . . . . . .2B Largo . . . . . . . . . . .2-3A Outdoors . . . . . . . . . .12A Pet connection . . . . . . .10-11A Police beat . . . . . . . . . .5A Sports . . . . . . . . . . .17A Viewpoints . . . . . . . . . .13A Call 397-5563 For News & Advertising Park volunteers donate to the cityMatilda, 4, and her brother Cody Hoffman, 7, of Largo present an $8,340 check from the Friends of Largo Nature. ... Page 2A.LARGO PET CONNECTIONPinellas Paws Cause is Dec. 8Capt. Barky makes his debut at the second annual Pinellas Paws Cause Holiday Celebration Saturday, Dec. 8, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Animal Services, 12450 Ulmerton Road in Largo. The Animal Services festivities feature Radio Disney, photos with Santa Paws, face painting, dogs on stage and more. ... Page 11A.HOLIDAYSPinellas celebrates the seasonCheck out holiday events in Largo including Holiday Lights in the Gardens, Holiday Traditions at Heritage Village, Big Band Christmas and the Cool Yule Holiday Show, among others. ... Page 16A.County shuts down part of business Local facility did not adhere to permit conditions ... Page 5A. Also, check out events in Largo this week including Hot Club San Francisco ... Page 1B.A review of West Coast Players show Romance in D Volume XXXV,No. 20 December 6, 2012 www.TBNweekly.com 112212727-725-1052 2547 Countryside Blvd. #5 www.customhairtampabay.com Look Good All Year Long!$50 OFF Any Full WigCustom Hair & Wigs 030112BACK AND NECK PAIN TREATMENTAUTO ACCIDENT INJURIESLow Back Pain Neck Pain Disc Problems Headaches Gregory Hollstrom II, D.C. Brian Rebori, D.C. 11444 Seminole Blvd., Largo 727-393-6100 Learn More at: www .DrGregHollstrom.com 12046 Indian Rocks Road, Largo 727-595-1222 www.VONailsAndSpa.comFACIALS SPA THERAPY WAXING NAILS AND MORE Not available with other offers. Expires 1/15/13Full Set or Spa Mani-PediNot available with other offers. Exp. 1/15/13120612 We Offer SHELLAC for Natural Nails20% OFF All Services for New Clients.$500OFF Photos by JIM LAYFIELDAbove left, the Largo Professional Fire Fighters had one of the largest floats in An Old-Fashioned Christmas Parade in Largo Dec. 3. The second annual parade traveled through the historic streets of the Old Northwest neighborhood. Above right, Eileen Livingston of the American Legion Post 119 in Largo gives an American flag and candy to Riley Grzegorzewski, 7, of Largo. At left, Robin and Mike Moesch of Largo pass out candy to children along the route. Below, Reagan and Aubrey Murrey, both 5, of Largo wait patiently for the start of the parade. See CHOCOLATE, page 2ASanta, also known as John Russell, takes a break during a photo appearance at the PetSmart in Largo Dec. 1. Russell also was the featured Santa Claus at Largos Holiday Tree Lighting and Stroll later that evening. While Russells white beard is real, his right leg is a prosthetic, amputated 17 years ago due to a medical condition.No stopping SantaAmputee helps spread Christmas joy Club donates toysBruce Blazej, president of the Largo/Mid-Pinellas Kiwanis Club delivers stuffed animals and toys to Summer Lott, director of Development of Directions For Living Nov. 30. ... Page 8A.COMMUNITY VIEWPOINTSBill CotterellColumnist discusses a new biography about the late Lawton Chiles. Page 13A. Photo by GINA VITTETOE

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2A Largo Leader, December 6, 2012 092712 102512 SOMETIMES THE MOST STRIKING THING ABOUT CHANGE IS WHAT DOESNT.Not everything changes. Conventional wisdom says otherwise, but wed say conventional wisdom got it wrong.Keeping your word, for instance,has never gone out of style in fact,its had a storied and strikingly consistent history at Raymond James. Along time ago, we said wed put clientsfirst. And for 50 years, weve been doing everything necessary acting cautiously, growing sustainably and serving clients unreservedly to keep that promise. So, even though we arent the same firm we were 50 or even five years ago, our commitment to you hasnt changed at all. LIFE WELL PLANNED. SOME THINGS JUST NEVER GET OLD LIKE SOUND DECISION-MAKING AND FIRM HANDSHAKES. 030812BLBJames S. Conlin, CFPSenior Vice President, Investments2401 West Bay Drive, Largo FL 33770 T 727-584-8615 T 800-237-0153 Jim.Conlin@raymondjames.com www.RaymondJames.com/Belleair-Largo Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange SIPC Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC 11-BDMKT-0687 SM 10-11LIFEWELLPLANNED.COM TOKENS MODEL PLANES TOYS USED WATCHES SCRAP GOLD PAPER MONEY BUY SELL TRADEMILITARY SWORDS, MEDALS & DAGGERSVINTAGE FISHING EQUIPMENT FOREIGN COINS & FOREIGN PAPER MONEY STERLING FLATWAREDALES COINS TOO1590 Seminole Blvd., LargoJust S. of Largo Post Office727-447-COIN (2646) We Make House Calls We Sell Coin & Stamp Supplies PLANES & TRAINS Class Rings ALMOST ANYTHING SMALL & COLLECTIBLEUS CURRENCY & MILITARY SCRIPT BUYING VINTAGE GAS PUMPS AND COCA COLA MACHINESSilver Coins1964 & OlderDimes Quarters HalvesMorgan & Peace Dollars Gold Coins and JewelryCoin Club Meets Here 3rd Wednesday of the Month $500 BILLS $1,000 BILLS Mon.-Fri. 9-4 Sat. 9-3 Closed Sunday Authorized PCGS and NGC member 32 Years In Business ALWAYS BUYING COINS AND CURRENCYGET QUICK CASH FOR THE HOLIDAYS!120612Costume Jewelry VISIT OUR NEW 3,700 SQ. FT. SHOWROOM IN LARGO Group donates $8,340 to Largo By JULIANA A. TORRESLARGO The Friends of Largo Nature Parks donated more than $8,000 to the Largo City Commission Dec. 4, the largest such donation to date. This is a giant moment for us. Its the first ever weve been able to bring a check to the city commission, said Friends President Pat Edmond. The money will go to the repair of the boardwalk at Bonner Park. Edmond also discussed the groups work caring for the birds of prey at the McGough Nature Center, including four owls and a red-shouldered hawk. It is completely self-supporting. All of the care giving for these raptors is done by volunteers, she said. All the feeding and equipment are raised through donations through strategic partnerships. Partners include Audubon Society of Clearwater, Progress Energy and Busch Gardens, which is providing veterinary care, free of charge. The group gave the city a check for $8,340, presented by park regulars Matilda and Cody Hoffman, 4 and 7, respectively. We hope to get a lot more than that this year. Edmond said. Parks Supervisor Greg Brown told the commission that the group gave presentations to schoolchildren throughout the year. Last year, Pat and her group saw 3,000 kids in Pinellas County Schools, he said. They are a phenomenal asset to the nature parks. Over the years, the group has raised more than $10,000 to support the parks.New gamesLater in the meeting, the Largo Commission awarded a bid to The Active Gaming Company for the purchase of equipment for an electronic exercise and game room for youth and adults at Highland Recreation Complex, which is currently undergoing renovations. A total of $89,711 includes the purchase of a Lightspace floor and wall, an Xbox and Kinect system, display screens and interactive electronic games as well as the shipping, installation and a three-year warranty. The equipment is designed to encourage exercise for both adults and children, explained Recreation, Parks and Arts Director Joan Byrne. The whole point is to get people moving, to get them having fun, she said.Photo by JULIANA A. TORRESPark regulars and volunteers Matilda, 4, and her brother Cody Hoffman, 7, of Largo present an $8,340 check from the Friends of Largo Nature Parks to Largo Mayor Pat Gerard during the Dec. 4 commission meeting. Former commissioner honoredPhoto by JULIANA A. TORRESMayor Pat Gerard, left, prompts a laugh from the audience at the Dec. 4 commission meeting and former Largo Commissioner Gigi Arntzen as she gives her the portrait that used to hang in Largo City Hall, because what else are we going to do with it? Arntzen recently retired from the commission, and its members thanked her for her service at the start of the meeting. Her career at the city began as an advisory board member in 1982, claiming a seat on the Largo Commission in 2006. Later that night, she was appointed to the Finance Advisory Board.Boy Scouts selling Christmas treesLARGO Boy Scout Troop No. 371 will hold their Christmas tree sale from now until Dec. 20 at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 11220 Oakhurst Road in Largo. The sale will be open on weekdays, 5 to 9 p.m., as well as on Saturday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday, 1 to 9 p.m. All the money raised will go to the troops upcoming campouts and troop needs. The troop has been selling Christmas trees for more than 35 years.First Friday in LargoLARGO Enjoy live entertainment, food trucks, vendors and street performers on First Fridays, 6 p.m. to 11 p.m., at the corner of Clearwater-Largo Road and First Avenue Southwest in Largo. The event is sponsored by OShys Tap House. Interested vendors and street performers can call 5884444. Visit www.discoverlargo.com. BriefsLeague, Greater Ridgecrest Area Youth Development Initiative, the Ian Tilmann Foundation, the Nina Harris School, Pinellas Education Foundation and Family Resources Youth Arts Corps. In the past, the event has raised more than $20,000 annually. I look forward to all of the guests being there, enjoying the evening and enjoying the chocolates, Coyner said. Everybody has a great time. Group tickets are available at discounted prices. For more information, to see all the event sponsors and chocolatiers or to purchase tickets, visit www.largodeathbychocolate.com or call 5876793. CHOCOLATE, from page 1A

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Those who contribute more than $1,000 to the Rotarys Annual Program Fund, the Polio Plus Fund or the Humanitarian Grants Program of the Rotary Foundation are recognized as Paul Harris Fellows. The Largo Rotary Club meets Mondays, noon to 1 p.m., at Alfanos Italian Restaurant, 1702 Clearwater-Largo Road.A new fellow City calendar City calendarLargo Central ParkThe Largo Central Park is at 101 Park Drive Central. Within the park are Largo Cultural Center, 105 Ce ntral Park Drive, and the Largo Public Library, at 120 Central Park Drive. For information about special events, call 587-6740, ext. 5014 or visit LargoEvents.comTrain WeekendLARGO Ride miniature trains around Largo Central Park on Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., during the first full weekend of the month. The next train weekend is Jan 5-6. For more information, visit the Train Weekend link at www.LargoEvents.com.Genealogy classesLARGO The Pinellas Genealogy Society offers a variety of free classes every month at Largo Public Library. For a complete listing with details of classes and scheduled times, visit www.flpgs.org/classes.aspx. For more information, email Bob Bryan at BBryan84@gmail.com or call 595-4521.Largo Community CenterLargo Community Center is at 400 Alt. Keene Road. Visit Largo CommunityCenter.com or call 518-3131.Fall Talent ShowLARGO Show off your talent and compete for a chance to perform live on stage during the Adult and Senior Fall Talent Show on Thursday, Dec. 6, 1 to 3:30 p.m., at the Largo Community Center. All adults and seniors are welcome to participate. Auditions and rehearsals will be held at the center. Registration forms are available at bit.ly/WMwi1x. A panel of judges will select 15 performers. Call 5183131 to reserve your audition slot. Tickets to the show are $5 in advance and $9 at the door.Weekly events Square dancing: Fridays, 7:30 to 9:45 p.m. Spend the evening dancing country-style to professional caller Allen Snell. The cost is $6. Open Air Market: Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Browse through a variety of vendors in a market featuring local produce, crafters, food, jewelry, artists and entertainment. Swing dancing: Saturdays, 7 to 11 p.m. Enjoy an evening of dancing and socializing on a 5,600-square-foot sprung hardwood floor. Free lessons from 7 to 8 p.m., followed by a dance with music by DJ is Savoy Swing. The cost is $6 with a recreation card and $7 without a recreation card. Bay Area Singles dance : Sundays, 6 to 10 p.m. Dress to impress, and join about 150 singles and friends of all ages to dance to an extensive music library to fit every taste. Cost is $8.Highland Recreation ComplexHighland Recreation Complex is at 400 Highland Ave. Visit Highland Recreation.com or call 518-3016. During construction, the complex is accessible from Lake Avenue.Breakfast with SantaLARGO Highland Recreation Complex will host Breakfast with Santa on Dec. 15, 9 a.m. Santas helpers will be serving breakfast, helping with crafts and taking pictures. Preregistration is required by Dec. 12. The cost is $8 per child and $3 per adult.Hot Hula FitnessLARGO Inspired by the dances of the Pacific Islands, Highland Recreation Complex is offering Hot Hula Fitness on Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. Hot Hula Fitness is a 60-minute total body workout designed to isolate your larger muscle groups, increasing strength and definition to your core with specific emphasis on the abs, glutes, quads, and arms. All ages and fitness levels are invited to enjoy this exciting dance workout. Hot Hula Fitness is a registered trademark of Anna-Rita Sloss enterprises. The cost is $5 for residents and $6.25 for nonresidents.Tiny Tot Story TimeLARGO Children ages 5 and younger are invited to dress to the theme for a morning of fun on second Fridays, 10:15 to 11 a.m., at Highland Recreation Center. Hear a story, make a craft and enjoy a snack. Preregistration two weeks prior is required. The theme for November is Happy Thanksgiving. The cost is $5 for residents or $6.25 for nonresidents.McGough Nature ParkThe center at McGough Nature Park, at 11901 146th St. N., is open weekdays, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5:45 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. Call 518-3047.Winter WonderlandLARGO Winter Wonderland featuring snowballs with real ice shavings, winter crafts, night hikes and roasting smores by the campfire will be held Dec. 7, 6 to 8 p.m., at McGough Nature Park. Come out for a night of fun, memories and a good old snowball toss. Call 518-3047 to preregister. Tickets are $5 per person. Children ages 2 and younger are free.

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Briefs4A County Leader, December 6, 2012Pinellas Countys watersheds are everyones responsibility By SUZETTE PORTERCLEARWATER Little things count big when everyone works together to improve water quality in Pinellas County, so say the nine panelists who participated in a Nov. 28 e-TownHall: Watershed, where we live, work and play. Moderated by Communications Department specialist Len Ciecieznski, panelists included Dale Armstrong, horticulture Extension agent and Jane Morse, commercial horticulture Extension agent, who fielded questions about ways homeowners, gardeners and professional landscapers can help protect the countys watersheds. Kelli Levy, Department of Environmental Infrastructure Watershed Division manager, and Nanette OHara, outreach coordinator for Tampa Bay Estuary Program, talked about the bigger picture in terms of responsibility for maintaining local watersheds and water quality. David Downing, assistant director for the St. Petersburg-Clearwater Convention Visitors Bureau, and Mike Miedel, director of the countys Economic Development, outlined the many ways that watersheds, water quality and the environment goes hand in hand with the countys economic opportunities. Terry Tomalin, Outdoors and Fitness Editor for the Tampa Bay Times, talked about the importance of water quality for water recreation. Liz Drayer, county resident and mother of two teenagers, gave the publics perspective on the issue. So, what is the issue? What is the connection between people and water quality? Levy explained the concept. A watershed is an area of land through which rainfall travels on its way to the nearest body of water, i.e. Tampa Bay, Gulf of Mexico, Lake Tarpon or Lake Seminole. Every square foot of Pinellas County is a watershed, she said. Rain falls and is absorbed into the ground until it cant hold more. The excess runs off into driveways and on into the road as it makes its way to the nearest drain sometimes traveling for miles through a series of pipes or ditches, Levy said. The intent of the public education campaign, which kicked off with the e-TownHall, is to get everyone to understand the impact of personal pollutants on local watersheds. Ciecieznski asked Levy if there was one thing the public could do that would have the biggest effect on water quality. Without hesitation, she said, the most beneficial would be management of grass clippings. Landscape program through which residents can learn how to design and maintain their yards. Morse handles the commercial side of the program and teaches classes required for certification of professional landscapers. Extension also has a help desk open to residents with questions. Miedel talked about the challenges for business and industry to ensure they follow environmental regulations. Theres not a lot of empty land for offices and factories, he said. Much of the industrial sites were developed prior to existing environmental standards and dont meet requirements. Miedels staff works with potential developers to help them design compliant facilities that will give them the best return on their investment and protect the local environment. Downing said Pinellas Countys beaches and waterways are a big draw for tourism. A clean environment is essential to the health of the $6 billion industry. Were a peninsula on a peninsula. Water sells the destination with all its water-based activities, he said. He talked about the work being done by hotels on the beach to become friendlier to the environment. He said they were even recycling soap and that 1 million bars had been recycled thus far. Drayer said her teenagers had good environmentally-friendly habits. Ive been badgering them since they were little on what they need to do, she said. But she said her neighbors werent as well versed. She said too many people want a square, green yard and maintain it with too much fertilizer and pesticides. She said more could be done by the government and schools to educate the public. Tomalin advocated empowering kid ocean warriors, which is how he describes his children. Often, kids get adults to do the right thing, he said. Tomalin pointed out something he said was a big problem. A lot of people drive across the Bay every day and they look at it, but they dont get in it, he said. Get out there in the water. Enjoy. Its the reason people come here. Once you get fishing, paddling or surfing, youll become an advocate for it. Youll want to protect it. Its all interconnected: the rain from the sky to the beaches and bays, Ciecieznski said. We have an opportunity to do harm or do good. Making better choices mean a better environment for us all. Nothing but rain down the drain, Levy said. Photo courtesy of PINELLAS COUNTY COMMUNICATIONSThis shot of the downtown Clearwater area shows how much of the Pinellas Countys lifestyle depends on the health of the watershed.You see landscapers blowing them everywhere, she said. Grass eats nitrogen and phosphorous to grow. Turn it (blower) around and blow the clippings back on your yard. Let them feed your lawn. OHara said if people leave grass clippings on their lawn, they would get one free feeding a year. Phosphorous is not the problem. It occurs everywhere naturally in the soil, she said. Nitrogen is public enemy No. 1 in Tampa Bay. Levy said following instructions when applying fertilizers and never fertilizing before a rain would help reduce nitrogen pollution. Pet owners can help reduce the bacteria moving through the watershed by picking up after their animals. There are more bacteria in pet waste than a cow or human beings, Levy said. The public was able to ask the panelists questions using the countys blog site, Twitter or by phone. A blogger asked why pet waste was a problem since it was a natural product. OHara agreed that it was; however, she pointed out that pet waste was an artificially driven problem due to the concentration of so many pets in a small area. We all love our dogs, she said. An estimated half million live in the Tampa Bay watershed, which ups the potential for high bacteria and water quality problems. OHara talked about the work done to clean up the mess left from development done in the s and s. She credited the success to a collaborative effort between government, private organizations and citizens. Water quality in Tampa Bay is as good as it was in the 1950s, she said, which is quite a feat considering the growth in Pinellas County. Weve made tremendous progress together, she said. But theres still a lot of work to do. Tomalin, who spends time fishing, surfing and paddling in local waterways, agreed that water clarity had improved as evidenced by a lack of ear infections after spending time engaging in water sports. Levy said it was likely that pet waste was responsible for Tomalins ear infections and his improved health could be attributed to work done to improve water quality. While water quality is improving in Tampa Bay, the Nov. 28 meeting focused on watersheds the area between where people live, work and play and area water bodies. Another blogger asked if money was available to pay to educate the public on the issue. Levy said while money was available, it was much reduced. The Extension Service offers a number of programs that are educating people about best practices for gardening and landscaping in Pinellas. Armstrong is in charge of the Florida Friendly SANTA, from page 1AWhen he first began to have problems with numbness and a burning and stinging sensation in his right leg, the self-described farm boy from Pennsylvania tried to work through the pain, continuing in his business repairing recreational vehicles and boats. But the situation went from bad to worse. It was bad. It hurt like hell, he said. Im not the kind of guy to take pain pills or painkillers. I tried to stay away from them. Finally, they put me on painkillers. It didnt help. Russell, a diabetic, went to several doctors before one finally diagnosed him with neuropathic anthropathy, a condition often called Charcot foot in which the joint progressively degenerates. Theres nothing you can do about it. Its a toothache you cant get rid of, he said. After progressively worse complications, Russells leg had to be amputated a few inches below his knee. I ended up with a stump that was hard to put a prosthetic on, he explained. Even 10 years later, Russell had to have reconstructive surgery to address the poorly adjusted stump. He eventually found orthopedic surgeon Dr. Thomas Mixa and the doctors at St. Petersburg Limb and Brace. He credits both for helping him walk again. But his doctors discourage the strenuous work that used to define his occupation. His other leg still suffers from the same condition. A carbon fiber brace keeps the foot absolutely still, allowing Russell to walk and stalling a more-than-likely second amputation. Without the brace, he said he can walk only about 50 yards without his leg swelling to the point where he must rest for the remainder of the day. The difficulty for Russell to adjust to a slower lifestyle was putting a strain on everything, he said. There were points when I thought, Why dont I just die? It just doesnt seem to be worth it, he remembered. Amputees are a depressed group, he explained. The majority considers suicide, even long after their amputation surgery. It plays games with your mind, said Russell, who now is called to visit and offer hope to patients facing amputation. It doesnt have to be that way. When Russell and Peggy, his wife of now 40 years, had their first of three grandchildren, he was reminded of his love for children and for Christmas. He started growing out his beard. During a trip to Costco one day, he encountered another man with a white beard, wearing a red shirt and khaki pants. He told the dressed-down Santa of his ambitions. He tells me, Oh youre too big. You cant do Santa Claus, Russell said. The comment, coming from a great-looking Santa Claus, was discouraging, he said. Aside from his size, he was concerned how disability might affect his ability to play Santa. Ive got one leg in a brace and one leg in a prosthetic, he remembered thinking, Just leave it for what it is and watch other people do it. Six years later, he was doing just that when he got a second opinion. From his wheelchair, Russell watched children talk with the Santa Claus at Countryside Mall while he waited for his wife to finish shopping. As they left, right as the mall was closing, Russell felt a tap on his shoulder. What were you doing in my area? You know better, the mall Santa Claus asked him. Youre a Santa Claus, right? Russell assured the man he was not. You ought to be, he responded. Russell later had dinner with the man who was named Wayne Barnett and decided to pursue his second career after all. Being disabled, its something I can do that my doctor will allow me to do, he said. He took classes, joined the International Brotherhood of Real Bearded Santas and the Florida-based Palm Tree Santas and earned a degree in International University of Santa Claus. It sounds cute and funny, but its very important. Theres a lot to know about being Santa Claus, he said. I think it takes more than telling people youre Santa. He learned how to present himself and pay attention to the volume and tempo of his voice as well as the importance of white gloves. There are laws that require Santas to have extensive background checks and carry insurance. But mostly, Russell learned how to embody a symbol of Christmas and how to relate to kids. He uses lights and jingle bells to distract children from their fear of a stranger in an imposing costume so that their parents can snap the picture they want for Christmas cards. I love the family visits and home visits, where a lot of Santas dont, he said. In fact, he thinks the Santa experience at a mall is a traumatizing event for a young child. I like the child to want to take a picture. I dont want them crying, he said. If youve got to have a picture with Santa, find some place where you can go where hes got time to talk to them. Some of the tactics are his own. Children these days often ask for expensive electronics or phones and Russell knows that not all parents can afford those things. So he uses diversionary methods. Santas elves build toys. They dont build electronics. Those are built by those electronic companies, he will explain, advising children to ask for parental approval. Well deliver it, but Mom and Dad have to OK it. Russell credits his frequent referrals and positive feedback partly to his enthusiasm stemming from PSTA director named to FTAFC boardST. PETERESBURG The director of Maintenance for the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority will use his expertise to improve transit operations across the state and help save taxpayer dollars. Billy Johnson, an 11-year PSTA veteran, with more than 30 years of experience as a mechanic, was recently appointed to the Florida Transit Association Finance Corporation Consortium Purchasing Board. This group evaluates, selects and negotiates bulk-purchasing agreements for transit vehicles on behalf of Floridas public transit agencies. Consortium Purchasing Board members are selected from transit agencies across the state based on their level of expertise. The representatives are the best of the best. As part of the consortium, Johnson will be working to ensure that Floridas transit agencies get the best American-made vehicles at the lowest possible prices. For the next 18 months, the group will be evaluating numerous bus models from various manufactures to determine which will best serve the public. Once the list of vehicles is set, the consortium will negotiate a purchase price with the manufacturers as part of a five-year contract. The final list will include buses of all sizes and fuel sources including diesel, hybrids, and natural gas. This is really an honor and Im excited about helping to select the vehicles that will shape the future of transit throughout the state, Johnson said. Johnson is the first PSTA director of maintenance to serve on the FTAFC Board since its inception. This collaborative effort gives every Public Transit agency in Florida no matter how big or small the chance to purchase the buses of their choice at the best possible prices. It benefits both the taxpayers and the private sector manufactures, adds PSTA CEO Brad Miller. The FTAFC was created in 1995 by the Florida Transit Association (now known as the Florida Public Transportation Association) as a way to reduce the costs associated with transit operators capital and equipment projects. An example of how the purchasing consortium works can be seen in the 12 new diesel-electric hybrid buses on order for PSTA. Due to hit the streets within the next few months, they were purchased from the state contract using federal grant funds. Visit PSTA.net or call the PSTA InfoLine at 540-1900.UPARC presents award to Pinellas County staffPinellas County Community Development employees recently were presented with UPARCs 2012 Presidents Award for their work on the renovation of Waterfall Apartment Complex and the Harborside Studio. The Harborside Studio is an art studio for developmentally challenged clients. The awards were presented in September to Sheri Harris, compliance manager and Rose Ott, grant compliance specialist. During the presentation, UPARC President Ryan Griffin said, Sheri was not only patient and professional, she was resourceful and flexible, always willing to brainstorm with us to resolve issues within the confines of their regulatory guidelines but always with the best interests of UPARC at the forefront. In the presentation to Ott, Griffin said, Rose has demonstrated exemplary leadership in her negotiations with our contractors to facilitate the successful closure of this project. The Presidents Award acknowledges an individual or an institution whose activities during the year have had a significant benefit to UPARC. Griffin finalized his comments to the staff by saying, Thank you for your efforts to go beyond what is expected to help UPARC and the community. Community Development Director Anthony Jones echoed UPARCs sentiments and said, We have very dedicated employees in Community Development and these employees represent the great work that is being accomplished not just in our department but throughout county government on a regular basis. Additional information about the award and the projects is available by calling UPARC at 799-3330.Photo by JULIANA A. TORRESJohn Russell checks his email at his Christmas-decorated desk in his Clearwater home Nov. 30. Photo courtesy of PINELLAS COUNTY COMMUNICATIONSRose Ott, left, and Sheri Harris receive the UPARC Presidents Award. his appreciation for work that doesnt conflict with his disability. Ive got 54 jobs to do in December already and it isnt December yet, he said during an interview on Nov. 30. Apparently Im a pretty good looking Santa. I get a lot of compliments. Russell said he believed in Santa when he was a child. Im just trying to look like what I would think Santa would look like, he said. There was a time when Santa Claus was magical and majestic to me. And then there was a time when Santa Claus was great to have around, He made part of that season better, for me as a person. Russell is already on his second Santa suit, after wearing out the first one. The new suit is a better quality, made of wool and designed in the classic Miracle of 34th Street look. Russell made his Santa belt himself, buying the leather and picking up a few leatherworking skills. The buckle is fashioned out of a brass plate he took off his front door and a sparkling sleigh he extracted from a Christmas trinket he found at a hardware store. The boots, of course, are specially designed, one an orthopedic brace designed for people with Charcot foot. The boot looks like a Santa boot anyhow, Russell said. Both the brace and the second foam boot are decorated with a shiny buckle and jingle bells. Vital to Santas look is his beard, and Russell has high standards of care for his, which is currently about 8 inches long. He keeps it trimmed and neat and always rolls it under before going out. When its not Christmas season, Russell stays in red and khaki. Even when hes not in full costume, his beard gives away his seasonal occupation, even in the summer. If you were to walk through the store with me, anywhere, I get stopped. I get stopped dozens of times, if not more, he said. You got to do it 24-7, 365 days a year. Its important that you do. Sometimes request for photos and questions from enthusiasts delays Russells attempt to even walk into a store. But he doesnt mind. You have to be congenial, because thats what you do. You cant be rude with them. I wont be rude with them, he said. Russell would like to see his part-time job carry him through more of the year so that he can meet his goal of no longer needing disability payments. Peggy Russell, who said she enjoys accompanying her husband as Santa but looks too young to be Mrs. Claus, has her own ambitions for her husband. My wifes dream is to see Santa in the Macys (Thanksgiving) Day parade, Russell said. Russell said he often marvels how fortunate he is. I enjoy the heck out of what I do, I really do, he said. I thank God I can stay healthy enough to do it. To contact Russell, visit www.clearwatersanta .com.

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County 5A Leader, December 6, 2012 Take a break from shopping, and join us for refreshments and a stroll through our beautifully decorated home, from our 17 Christmas Tree, Santa and his Sleigh, to the North Pole, and our Holiday Village. Spy Howdy Doody and the Muppet gang and a family of Carolers while enjoying cappuccino and cookies.Thursday, December 20th 11 to 2pmRoyal Palms 200 Lake Avenue NE, LargoPlease call for more information at727-585-8003www.royalsenior.com Decorated for the Holidays!You Are Invited To Come By120612 120612 120612 Police beat Police beatMen arrested for burglary at day carePINELLAS PARK Pinellas Park police arrested two men for breaking into a childrens day care center on the 4200 block of 78th Avenue N. on Nov. 6. Christopher Estrada, 21, and Edil Rodriguez, 22, were arrested for burglary to an unoccupied structure. Police responded to a call about a possible burglary at 11:57 p.m. and the suspects fled the scene by foot when officers arrived. A police K-9 was called in to locate the suspects, who were arrested. Both men were transported and booked into the Pinellas County Jail.Motorcyclist dies in crashPINELLAS PARK A motorcyclist was fatally injured on the 12000 block of U.S. 19 N. after colliding with a car early Nov. 15. Members of the Pinellas Park Police and Fire Departments responded to the scene at 3:04 a.m. Police say Geoffrey Burt, 53, of Palm Harbor, was riding a 2007 Suzuki motorcycle and heading northbound on U.S. 19 N. when he collided with a 2004 Dodge Intrepid, driven by Brian Winthrop, 32, of Holiday, heading in the same direction. Burton, who wasnt wearing a helmet, was pronounced dead at the scene. Winthrop was uninjured. No charges have been filed and the cause of the crash remains under investigation.Detectives arrest Palm Harbor bank robbery suspectPALM HARBOR A Palm Harbor man was arrested just after 3 p.m. Nov. 30 in connection with the Nov. 28 robbery of the Bank of America, 4000 Lake St. George Drive. Cody Waugh, 29, was booked into the Pinellas County Jail on one charge of strong-arm robbery about 4:20 p.m. and was released on a $10,000 surety bond at 11 p.m. According to detectives with the Pinellas County Sheriffs Office, Waugh entered the bank about 10:20 a.m. Nov. 28 and handed the teller a note demanding cash. He implied he had a gun. The teller complied with the demand and the suspect fled on foot northbound on Lake St. George Drive. Detectives received a call on Nov. 30 from an individual who said they had seen the photo of the suspect on the Palm Harbor Patch website and thought they recognized the suspect. Detectives interviewed Waugh who admitted to the robbery and stated he used some of the stolen money to catch up on his rent, pay for furniture rental and to purchase personal items for himself and his wife.County shuts down part of local business By SUZETTE PORTERCLEARWATER Pinellas County Commissioners voted unanimously Nov. 27 in favor of a staff recommendation that shuts down a piece of a Clearwater business. The action rescinds a conditional use permit for an outdoor solid waste management facility at 16604 U.S. 19 N. in unincorporated Clearwater. Bob Shehu through his company Berati #2 LLC, headquartered in Belleair Beach, owns the property. He requested the permit in 2010 and approval was granted based on him satisfying nine conditions. A 10th says if any of the nine conditions are not met, the County Commission could rescind the permit. Staff says six of the nine conditions remain unmet despite the business being in operation for two years since the permit was issued. Shehu was represented by Housh Ghovaee, Northside Engineering Services Inc., who said the noncompliance was due to the owner not knowing exactly what would be needed for the business. He said it grew faster and required more than expected. Todd Myers with Pinellas County Code Enforcement outlined the problems at the site where landscape debris is recycled. Shehu also runs a landscape business from the location. The permit only deals with his business of transferring vegetative debris. Myers showed photos of piles of telephone poles and debris stacked almost as high as the standing electrical poles on the perimeter of the property. He showed fuel tanks in an inappropriate location, bins moved to a different location than originally permitted and other problems. Residents of Embassy Mobile Home Park located adjacent to the facility complained about having to look at the piles of debris, as well as noise, which they said came outside the permitted hours. According to a staff document, the business did not submit a full site plan, one of the nine conditions. One violation of operation outside of hours was confirmed. Another reason the owner gave for the uncontrolled pileup was that the purchaser of a grinder was cost prohibitive. Staff pointed out that one of the nine conditions for the permit was no grinding or mulching type of equipment was allowed. Height of the debris was not to exceed 12 feet another violation. The debris is not being removed every two days another unmet condition. Only vegetative debris was allowed. Piles of telephone poles are a violation. The owner also was required to get a permit from the state Department of Environmental Protection. Staff said its last contact with the DEP showed a permit had not been granted. Ghovaee assured commissioners that the permit did exist. We can show it to you tomorrow or other time that you wish, he said. Ghovaee represented the company during an appearance in front of a special magistrate on Oct. 29. The magistrate-referenced inspections of the property conducted May 25, 2011, and Oct. 24, 2012, that confirmed violations of the conditional use still existed. He gave the company until Dec. 13 to comply or face fines up to $1,500 a day. Ghovaee assured commissioners that the owner did not want to pay the fines and would comply by Dec. 13. He also said a permit to expand the business was in the works and indicated the process would be delayed if commissioners rescinded the conditional use. He asked for a delay at the very least. From now on, well be good neighbors. Well follow the rules, he said. The commission was not swayed. This has been problematic from the beginning, said Commissioner Karen Seel. County Attorney Jim Bennett said the special magistrate had the authority to levy fines, but could not shut a business down. The board has to decide whether to shut down, he said. In other business, the commission: Approved advertising a Dec. 11 public hearing on re-appropriation of fund balance in the fiscal year 2013 budget for the STAR Center Fund. Staff proposes using the leftover $1.34 million to support completion of three capital improvement projects for the Centers anchor tenant, Raytheon. Granted authority to the county attorney to settle in the administrative challenge of Pinellas County versus Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Bennett said a review of the final permit is still pending. Staff must notify the administrative law judge by Dec. 14. The county filed suit against the state due to a draft permit that would have increased the monitoring requirements and a new Total Maximum Daily Load for water quality. New language in the final permit would allow staff to use current techniques to monitor local water quality. Radio show highlights green holiday ideasResidents looking for ways to enjoy a green holiday season without spending a lot of money can get ideas during the Thursday, Dec. 6, Theres No Place Like Home, radio show sponsored by the Housing Finance Authority of Pinellas County. The program also can be watched on Pinellas County Connection Television, YouTube, or viewed online at www.pinellascounty .org/community/hfa/Media.htm. This months program features James Stevenson, extension specialist with the Pinellas County Extension. The discussion topics include helpful tips and ideas on enjoying a green holiday, inexpensive gift ideas and creating new family traditions to help you enjoy the holiday without spending a lot of money. The Housing Finance Authority of Pinellas County sponsors the program, which features different issues each month. It airs the first Thursday of each month from 10:05 to 10:35 a.m. on WRXB 1590 AM. Questions or comments about the show may be emailed to HousingFinanceAuthority@pinellascounty.org.

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6A County Leader, December 6, 2012 DAVID P. CARTERATTORNEY AT LAWOver 38 Years of Experience Former Judge7985 113th Street, Suite 108 Seminole, FL 33772 727-397-4555 FAX: 727-397-4405 E-mail: carterlawgroup@yahoo.com Wills, Trusts, Estates General Civil Bankruptcy Accident/Personal Injury Auto/Slip-Fall Product DefectFREE CONSULTATION072612 Serving Seminole for 35 Years727-437-0577 Oil Changes Air Conditioning Tune-ups Check Engine Light Under the Hood Under the Auto Tires & Brakes Heating & Cooling Ignition & Electrical We accept most competitors coupons! OIL & FILTER SPECIAL$1595Includes 24 Point Safety InspectionUPTO5 QUARTS OF5W-30 OIL. MOSTCARS. EXP. 12-30-12 Jim HobsonASE Certified Master Mechanic ASE Advanced Engine Performance Hours: Mon.-Fri. 7:30-6pm Sat. 7:30-1pm Next to Pinch-A-Penny & Snyders Transmission112912GM & FORD SPECIALIST9660 Seminole Blvd., Suite B Seminole Computer Reprograming Available for GM & Ford Vehicles 1996-2013. 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See the full page in todays Seminole Beacon, Beach Beacon, Largo Leader or Belleair Bee for a list of participating merchants.Enter a Fun Contest Win $25 Gift Card and your photo in the Belleair BeePet Costume ContestThursday, Dec. 13th at 10am Munchies Natural Pet Foods, 2896 West Bay Drive or Friday, Dec. 14th at 10:30am Bluffs Animal Hospital, 320 N. Indian Rocks RoadSanta Look aLike ContestThursday, Dec. 13th at Noon Antique Alley, 580 N. Indian Rocks RoadTacky Sweater ContestThursday, Dec. 13th at 11am Plaza 100, 100 Indian Rocks Road or Friday Dec. 14th at 11:30am LeBouchon Plaza, 790 N. Indian Rocks RoadStop in at any of the participating merchants to pick up your contest entry form and passport. For information contact Bonnie Trembulak, 727-686-8797. Sponsored by the Bluffs Business Association. 12612 New vehicle helps fire district make tracks in service By TOM GERMONDINDIAN ROCKS BEACH Heres a given: Fire trucks dont do well in soft sand. To the rescue comes a foundation that provided a $16,700 utility vehicle to the Pinellas Suncoast Fire & Rescue District. The Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation donated the John Deere Gator Utility Terrain Vehicle and equipment to the fire district. Foundation representatives, district employees and community leaders were on hand during a ceremony Nov. 29 at the districts station at 301 First St. District Fire Chief Robert Polk thanked the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation for its commitment to public safety. This has been a project thats kind of been on the drawing board for quite awhile, Polk said. Unfortunately, we, like a lot of agencies today, dont have the economic wherewithal to do everything we would like to do. From the districts standpoint, he said the acquisition was a collaborative effort. One of the departments lieutenants searched for a grant and found out how to acquire it. The finance director and executive assistant put together all the details and lo and behold we were successful. The district has more than eight miles of beach coastland that it is obligated to serve with fire and EMS protection. As you might imagine, we dont typically put fire trucks on the beach. They dont do well in soft sand, he said, and its very hard to maneuver. So for years, the departments personnel has been having to move patients great distances by using a board and carrying them to a waiting ambulance. Sometimes the distance is hundreds of yards. So this gives us the ability not only to go on the beach and move patients in a motorized fashion, it is also capable of pulling our boat, so we can take the boat right out and do beach launches for people who are stranded and in need of help right out into the Gulf, Polk said. There are many special events on the beaches attracting large numbers of people, making matters difficult to move large fire trucks on crowded streets. So this also can double as a special event vehicle. We can move in and around crowds. We can work in parks. We can drive down sidewalks. We can go a lot of places where a fire truck cant go, Polk said. Through its nonprofit organization, Firehouse Subs has given more than $5.2 million worth of equipment and resources to 465 different organizations. Thats something we are extremely proud of but we wouldnt be able to do it without our restaurants and our guests, said Meghan Bender, foundation development manager. Each Firehouse Subs recycles leftover 5-gallon pickle buckets and sells them to guests for $2. Donation canisters on register counters explain the nonprofit organizations mission and collects spare change. Photo by TOM GERMONDPinellas Suncoast Fire & Rescue District Chief Robert Polk discusses the benefits of its new utility vehicle at a ceremony Nov. 29 at the Indian Rocks Beach station.Annual produce giveaway scheduled in PinellasOLDSMAR Oldsmar Cares and Sen. Jack Latvala, R-Clearwater, have partnered again this year along with other members of the Pinellas Legislative Delegation and Florida Farm Share to give away fresh produce to families in upper Pinellas County the week before Christmas. The event will be at the Oldsmar Cares offices located at 163 S.R. 580 West, Oldsmar, Tuesday, Dec. 18. This giveaway begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 11 a.m. Free produce is available to the public while supplies last. Items to be distributed at this event have included green beans, corn and juice. When Sen. Latvala served in the Florida Senate from 1994-2002, he initiated Florida Farm Share Free Produce distributions in West Pasco and north Pinellas. In 2011, the senator had a successful giveaway the week before Christmas at England Brothers Park in Pinellas Park and Oldsmar Cares in Oldsmar. With hundreds of pounds of fresh produce, distributed to 500 families the fresh produce giveaways will again enrich the tables and hearts of many Pinellas County residents. Oldsmar Cares is a nonprofit all volunteer organization with a mission to provide stopgap rent and utility assistance, food and clothes to those in need in the greater Oldsmar area. Florida Farm Share is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the distribution of nutritious foods to those in need.

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Community 7A Leader, December 6, 2012 You are Cordially Invited to Attend Our Candlelight ServiceIlluminated candles in memory of those we have served.Saturday, December 15th Starting at 7:15pmPlease RSVP for your ornament and reserved seating.Garden SanctuaryFuneral Home and Cemetery7950 131st Street N., Seminole727-391-0121120612 Unique Gifts for the HolidaysWe have just the right gift for that special person! Flower Pets Geodes Bird Houses Candle Lamps Wind Chimes Cards Balloons Jewelry Terrariums and so much more! Free Gift with mention of this ad!Expires 12-13-121608 Belcher Road S., Suite B, Largo727-648-4938120612 120612 120612 120612-3Coming to Largo:Dec. 6th, 7th & 11thComing to Seminole:Dec. 13th & 14thNo Rx Required! Only $95 City of Pinellas Park to purchase Suncoast Haven of Rest By TIFFANY RAZZANOPINELLAS PARK Following increased complaints from neighbors of the Suncoast Haven of Rest Rescue Mission, the Pinellas Park City Council decided to solve the problem by purchasing the groups two pieces of property on Park Boulevard. The deal forces the mission to relocate by the end of January. At its Nov. 20 meeting, the council voted 4-0 to purchase the Haven of Rests two pieces of property at 5625 and 5663 Park Blvd. with Councilman Rick Butler abstaining from the vote because he owns property at 5635 Park Blvd. in the same commercial strip, sandwiched between the two buildings. The city will purchase the properties for $370,000, with an estimated $5,140 for closing costs. The deal will close on Friday, Dec. 21, city officials said, but theyll allow the Haven of Rest to remain in the buildings through Jan. 21 rent-free while the group organizes its move. It was kind of a fast deal, said Rev. Lionel Cabral, who runs the mission. The whole thing happened so quickly, especially given the state of the real estate market. He said it was not even two months ago that he was first invited to a meeting with neighbors, police representatives, and city officials to address some of their concerns. He didnt expect the situation to escalate so quickly. Haven of Rest offers a multitude of services to homeless individuals and families in the area, including daily meals, food boxes, free clothing, and hot showers. The city has fielded complaints about the mission for years, said Tim Caddell, spokesperson for the city, and the grievances have increased since August, after the mission bought its second building in the strip. Neighbors routinely complain that homeless individuals trespass and urinate on their property, have stolen items from yards, and that some often show up for the daily meals drunk or on drugs and are belligerent, Caddell said. They care for the hardcore homeless, he said. Theyre on drugs and alcohol. These are who Lionel ministers to. And its a good thing theres someone there to worry about them, but its gotten out of control in the area. These people need help, said one resident on 76th Avenue, behind the strip where the rescue mission is located, who wished to remain anonymous. We see them going up and down the street all the time. But the rescue mission is not giving them the help they need. They need to be in halfway houses or something. Cabral acknowledges there are a dozen or so individuals who regularly cause problems. But theyre banned, from Haven of Rest, he said. And the mission calls the police when they show up. The police pick them up and theyre issued a trespass citation, Cabral said. The only thing we can do is trespass them. Then theyre back out there the next day. He said he understands why neighbors are upset, but that the mission does everything it can to keep these individuals away. Over the past month or so, the city has stepped up enforcement of the area. Its borrowed an observation tower from the Pinellas County Sheriffs Office to install a video camera. Neighbors were provided a Web link to view the footage captured by this camera so they could easily contact police if they saw anything suspicious. Caddell also said there have been zoning issues with the mission over the years, since their buildings arent zoned for cooking meals or housing people, and parking has always been an issue. He added, Its not a matter of forcing the mission out. Its a matter of balancing the work of the mission with the needs of the community. What really matters is how many people Haven of Rest assists, Cabral said. And the organizations statistics speak volumes, he added. The mission provides poor and homeless residents of the county with 1,697 meals and meal equivalencies each day and serves as a food bank for 171 local nonprofit groups. There are also 11,465 impoverished families signed up to receive food boxes. There are only half a dozen, maybe 10 people complaining and over 600,000 people who benefit from the mission each year, he said. They need to have a little empathy, and maybe live with a little discomfort to help all these people. But rather than stir up controversy, Cabral would like to remain on friendly terms with the city as he searches for a bigger and better home for the rescue mission, one that will allow the organization to expand its services. The city is actually working closely with the mission to find it a new home. They do good work, Caddell said. Were not trying to run them out of the city. We just need to find them a place not in a residential area. Bud Wortendyke, a real estate coordinator for the city who handled the purchase of the missions property, provided Haven of Rest with a list of several pieces of property in northern Pinellas Park, closer to the homeless encampment Pinellas Hope, that might better suit its needs. They do some really good things, he said. But they really need a bigger spot. Though the mission is scrambling to find a place to move over the holidays, this situation is almost a blessing in disguise. Weve wanted to find a new home for years, Cabral said. Now, Haven of Rest is forced to seek it out. And it happens to coincide with the mission being gifted over $1 million about six months ago from a donor who wishes to remain anonymous. Well be able to do so much more with a bigger building, Cabral said. I just wish we had more time to find it. Cabral said he doesnt want to just jump at the first property he sees, but is open to any situation at this point, including leasing space from other local organizations and purchasing a site zoned as a restaurant. The mission has even reached out to collaborate with Catholic Charities and D and D Missionary Homes. If theyre worried about the homeless just walking up, were also interested in renting their space as storage for our bulk foods and food bank, and renting a separate space for serving people, he said. For the city, the purchase of the missions buildings is part of a bigger plan for the eight properties. Were talking to all the property owners [in that strip] about purchasing their lots, Caddell said. For years weve looked at that area, and this is a chance to redevelop the whole block. Photo by TIFFANY RAZZANOThe city is looking to purchase all of the properties in this commercial strip between 56th and 59th Streets on Park Boulevard to redevelop the area.

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We Specialize in Family Law: Divorce Custody Child Support Modification Adoption Criminal Wills Mediation Free ConsultationTODD LAW OFFICES5315 Park Boulevard, Suite 3 Pinellas Park 727-545-8633www.toddlawoffices.comJennifer ToddAttorney 120612NOW March 29 910 West Bay Drive, Largo727-437-2113 Closed Sundays Shop our elegant evening wear room for your Holiday eventsNew & Resale Women & Mens Designer BoutiqueGucci Tori Burch Prada Tommy Bahama Robert GrahamCoutured la Deuxime NOW OPENin Gulfport!120612 Kiwanis Club donates toys to children in needLARGO The Largo/Mid-Pinellas Kiwanis Club delivered a donation of stuffed animals and toys to the Directions For Living Nov. 30. The toys will be distributed as Christmas gifts to children who are served at the Largo Center of Directions For Living, many of whom have been victims of abuse and neglect. These children will receive these gifts to help them feel the magic of the season. Directions For Living was founded in 1982 and now serves more than 12,000 people every year throughout the Tampa Bay area. About 300 dedicated employees in five locations throughout Pinellas and Pasco counties provide child safety, counseling, psychiatry, care management and a range of wellness and prevention services to empower adults, children and families in the community. To help the children served by Directions For Living by donating or learning about other ways to get involved, call Lott at 524-4464, ext. 1723. The Largo/Mid-Pinellas Kiwanis Club is a service club of dedicated volunteers, part of Kiwanis International, which was founded in 1915. The local club is actively seeking new members who would like to make a difference in the life of a child. For more information, contact Blazej at 536-0412. Photo courtesy of BRUCE BLAZEJ Bruce Blazej, president of the Largo/Mid-Pinellas Kiwanis Club delivers stuffed animals and toys to Summer Lott, director of Development of Directions For Living Nov. 30. Taste of Pinellas taking hiatusST. PETERSBURG After 26 successful years, downtown St. Petersburgs original food and music festival is taking a break. A Taste of Pinellas benefiting All Childrens Hospital will be on hiatus for 2013 while organizers retool the event for future success. While A Taste of Pinellas has enjoyed great success, we have also experienced a decline in overall attendance and an increase in expenses to run this three-day event, said Cindy Rose, ACH vice president of marketing. Today, there are many more community events and entertainment venues competing for the publics time and money. We felt it was a good time to take a strategic look at all facets of the event to see if we can make it better for the future. From the beginning, A Taste of Pinellas has always been about helping the kids at All Childrens Hospital. It was born out of volunteers who had personal experiences with children being cared for expertly at the hospital. This hiatus will afford the opportunity to concentrate on how best to ensure that Taste is an event that everyone in the Bay Area wants to attend so that it ultimately can continue to support the work of All Childrens Hospital, organizers said. During the next year, the hospital will work with community and restaurant partners to develop a plan for a new Taste or a similar type of event that the community will enjoy. The goal is to have an event that brings people together to have a good time and celebrate the difference All Childrens makes to the lives of our communitys children.Holiday wish list for Pinellas groups growing longer By SUZETTE PORTERCaring for Pinellas Countys less fortunate, its seniors and those with special needs is a constant challenge. But, year after year, Pinellas County comes together to make the holidays bright for everyone, old and young, sick and healthy, and especially the poor. Tampa Bay Newspapers has updated its annual Share the Spirit listing of ways people are pitching in to help others. To add to the list, send an email to webmaster@TBNweekly.com.Collection for Operation Santa, senior centerThe Gulfport Merchants Association is collecting items for Operation Santa during the Holiday Hoopla Dec. 8, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Bring unwrapped toys and gift cards for children and families and nonperishable food, toiletries and pet supplies for the Gulfport Senior Center Foundation. Collection Boxes will be located at the Casino Stage at the intersection of Beach and Shore boulevards during the event. Nonevent drop off locations include Gulfport Police Department and The Gulfport Area Chamber of Commerce. For more information, visit gulfportma.com or call 322-5217.Elves for Elders Program 2012 in Largo, St. Petersburg and OldsmarThe Elves for Elders program connects gift givers with seniors who have no funds or family to provide them with basic necessities or to remember them with a gift. You can help by becoming an Elf. Simply pick a tag off a tree containing the wish list of someone in need. Buy an item or two and return the gifts unwrapped to the location on the tag. No gift is too small, and if you do not have time to shop, mail a gift card to Elves, Sunshine Center, 330 Fifth St. N., FL 33701 and an Elf will shop for you. Trees are located at Bealls Stores in Largo Mall, Gateway Mall, and Oldsmar Mall. More are at Pasadena Office building at 1135 S. Pasadena Ave.; The Walgreens on 54th Avenue and Ninth Street; Walgreens on U.S. 19 and Central Avenue; and the Big Lots on 62nd Avenue. Gifts are taken to The Sunshine Senior Center where head Elf Carol Radin, administrative assistant, Office on Aging for the city of St. Petersburg, works with other elves who put the bags together, then distribute the gift bags to the case managers and guardians of the needy seniors, who deliver them to the seniors. Deadline to drop off the gifts at the trees is Dec. 12. The list is long this year with more than 450 needy seniors. SHARETHESPIRITToys for Tots driveIce Cold Air Discount Auto Repair, a Pinellas-based auto repair, is trading free oil changes and tire rotations or $20 in auto repair service to any customer who brings in a new, unwrapped toy for the Marines Toys for Tots program through Dec. 10. According to Tina M. Denham, president of Ice Cold Air Discount Auto Repair, this is the seventh year we have joined with the Marines and their worthwhile program, and we are very excited our support makes a positive impact in the lives of children. Last year our customers donated approximately 1,000 toys for the less fortunate children in our community. Customers have the option of trading the new toy for an oil change and tire rotation on the spot or exchanging the toy for a voucher for a free future oil change and tire rotation or $20 off any service. The company has also added another component to the Toys for Tots drive, a contest on Facebook. Facebook users can guess how many toys they think the company will collect at all 16 Ice Cold Air locations. Each guess counts as $1 toward charity. The winner receives a $50 VISA Gift Card but also then selects which charity receives the donation for the total number of votes. Donations will be accepted at all 16 Ice Cold Air locations. The toys must be in the original packaging and unwrapped. Visit www.icecoldair.com for a list of locations.People That Love Church and MissionFood is being collected for the holidays and for daily distribution at the People That Love Church and Mission, 817 Fifth Ave. N., St. Petersburg. Canned and nonperishable foods are needed, as are 10to 12-pound turkeys. All donations may be delivered at any time. For information, visit www.peoplethatlove.com. See SPIRIT, page 9A

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Community 9A Leader, December 6, 2012 Group donates gifts for Christmas babies Photo courtesy of the CITY OF LARGOMembers of the Craft and Chatter group display bassinet blankets and matching hats they made to donate to Tampa General Hospital. The blankets and hats will be given to babies born on Christmas Day.LARGO Members of the Craft and Chatter group, based at the Largo Community Center, knitted and crocheted red and white bassinet blankets and matching hats for babies who are born on Christmas Day. The group has been meeting every Tuesday for more than 20 years. The results of their latest project destined for Christmas babies were donated to Tampa General Hospital. In addition to making baby blankets, hats and booties for the community, the group has made and donated skull caps for the military to wear under their helmets, scarves for the homeless of Project Hope and lap robes.Canned goods for library finesAll Clearwater Public Library branches will offer an amnesty period for overdue materials in exchange for a donation of nonperishable goods. The offer is valid through Friday, Dec. 21. Anyone who has fines may bring their canned goods or nonperishable foods to any Clearwater library branch and present them at the circulation desk with the overdue materials if available. Staff will waive any fines due, and the donated food will go toward a holiday charity food drive. Call 562-4970.First Bank collects Toys for TotsEight First Bank branches in Pinellas County will participate in the 2012 Toys for Tots campaign, a U.S. Marines Corp League program that collects and distributes toys as Christmas gifts to needy children in the community. Through Dec. 10, First Bank customers and others in the community are invited to stop by the following First Bank offices during regular lobby hours and drop off new, unwrapped toys: Pinellas Park, 7600 U.S. 19 N. Pasadena, 6850 Central Ave., St. Petersburg Kenneth City, 5825 54th Ave. N. Seminole, 13700 Park Blvd. Walsingham, 13175 Walsingham Road, Largo For information, call Kathy Carlson at 896-1641, ext. 11201.Salvation Army ClearwaterClearwater Salvation Army is seeking volunteers to help with holiday activities, including the following: Walmart Fill-A-Truck, Dec. 8, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Volunteers are needed to assist with handing out toy wish lists to shoppers and collecting donated toys. Christmas Distribution, Dec. 17-18. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Volunteers are needed to assist with the Christmas toy and food distribution. For more information, call Jo Ann Bruner at 7259777, ext. 104 or email JoAnn_Bruner@uss.salva tionarmy.org.Suncoast Brotherhood motorcycle toy runThe Suncoast Brotherhood motorcycle rights group presents its 32nd annual Toy Run on Sunday, Dec. 16, starting from the Kmart parking lot at U.S. 19 and S.R. 580 in Dunedin. The police escorted procession begins with kickstands up at noon. Participants are asked to bring a $5 donation and an unwrapped toy per person, all to benefit the Pinellas County Foster and Adoptive Parents Association. The group is especially asking for gift cards this year, as many of the foster kids are teenagers. The procession will start along S.R. 580 and end at American Legion Post 275 at 360 Wilson St. For information, call Suzanne at 736-4664 or Kenny at 580-9183.Kiwanis Club Christmas tree lotThe Kiwanis Club of Seminoles Christmas tree lot is open at 8450 113th St., next to the former Seminole Chamber of Commerce building. The lot will be open weekdays from 4 to 8 p.m., Saturdays 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 7 p.m. until all trees are gone. The lot features Frazier fir trees. Most major credit cards are accepted. Proceeds will benefit the clubs various community service projects.Boy Scouts Christmas Tree SaleBoy Scout troop 371s annual Christmas tree sale continues through Dec. 20, at Christ the King Lutheran Church. 11220 Oakhurst Road, Largo. The trees will be sold from 5 to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday; 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday; and 1 to 9 p.m. on Sunday. Proceeds go to the troops upcoming campouts and other troop needs24th annual Deck the HallsPurchase ornaments for the holiday tree and help Suncoast Hospice Saturday, Dec. 8, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at ArtLofts at Florida Craftsmen, 10 Fifth St. N., St. Petersburg. All artist-made ornaments sell for $5 and proceeds go to Hospice. For more information, call 418-8887 or email Vlkrie@aol.com.Holiday shopping fundraiserThe Grand Central District, located just west of To learn about the Craft and Chatter group or to join, visit LargoCommunityCenter.com or call 518-3131. Downtown St. Petersburg, is hosting a holiday shopping promotion that will raise money for Ronald McDonald Charities of Tampa Bay. For the weekend of Friday, Dec. 7, through Sunday, Dec. 9, 10 percent of qualifying sales made at participating merchants will be donated to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Tampa Bay. Shoppers must mention the promotion at the time of purchase for their sale to qualify. As part of the promotion, shoppers are invited to come to the Grand Central District on Saturday, Dec. 8, between 5 and 8 p.m. for additional holiday fun. Activities include free trolley rides to transport shoppers along Central Avenue, judging of the Grand Central District Window Decorating Contest, and a gift-wrapping station. There also will be carolers and other holiday characters roaming the District (including Santa). Hubby Day Care also will be available. Ronald McDonald House of Tampa Bay provides a home-away-from-home for families with children receiving medical treatment in bay area hospitals. For more information about the organization, visit www.rmhctampabay.com. The holidays are a difficult time for our families, who find themselves caring for their hospitalized child, work and family commitments, and juggling medical bills. Having the support of a caring community makes all the difference to these families, said Executive Director and CEO Janice Davis. Community contributions allow us to keep our doors open and provide for these families. For more updates, and a list of participating merchants, visit www.grandcentraldistrict.org. Sponsorship and volunteer opportunities are available. For more information, call Lauren Ruiz, GCDAs executive director, at 828-7006 or email gcda@grandcen traldistrict.org. SPIRIT, from page 8A Now Live Piano Entertainment!Sing along with the piano styings ofNew Yorks own Gregory AllenWed.-Sat. Lunch~Noon-2pm & 5pm to close ~ Sun. 10am-2pm only 4601 66th St. N. St. Petersburg ~ 727-222-4428WWW. SIMPLYDELICIOUSDINER.COM BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER Best Reuben South of NYC12612 CHRISTMASEVEChef will present a special menu selection just for Christmas Eve Open 4:00 til Reservations on parties of 5 or more. Full Menu AvailableCHRISTMASDAYServing 12:30 8:00 pm Roast Turkey with all the Trimmings or Baked Honey Glazed Ham Soup or Salad Candied Sweet Potatoes Fluffy Mashed Potatoes Green Beans Almandine Pumpkin or Pecan Pie Coffee or Tea 18.9 Children Under 12 12.9 NOW TAKING ALL RESERVATIONS!NEWYEARSEVEOpen 4:00 pm 10:00 pmSteak Wellington with Vegetable Bouquetire, Au Gratin Potatoes, Salad, Warm Bread with Seasoned Olive Oil Dipping $25.90 R.S.V.P. ON PARTIES OF 5 OR MORE Closed New Years Day13079 Park Boulevard Seminole 727-393-1703 grill131.com 120612 17307 Gulf Boulevard, N. Redington Beach727-393-3491ChristmasDayChristmasDaySeating 12:30pm through 9pmCrisp Garden Fresh Relishes Atlantic King Salmon Cream of Asparagus Soup Assorted Field Green Salad Raspberry Sorbet Choice of: Roasted Long Island Duck Breast Pan Seared Wisconsin Veal Chop Fresh Gulf Snapper Orleans Steak DianeSugar Cured Baked Virginia Ham Desserts Apple Strudel mit Schlag New York Cheesecake Chocolate Mousse Martini Traditional Bread PuddingWith rich bourbon sauce$30.50 $15children under 1015% gratuity and 7% sales tax will be added to your check120612 120612Indian Rocks BeachReceive a $10 Gift Certificate For Each$50 Gift Card Purchased!A Great Gift For Them ... and a Little Something For Yourself! 120612 Christmas DayTuesday, December 25th, 201210:30am-9pmCarving Station Grainy Mustard & Horseradish Crusted Prime Rib Honey & Brown Sugar Baked Ham Entrees Lobster Enchiladas w/tequila seafood bisque Bourbon Christmas Goose w/caramelized red onion jam Seafood Gumbo w/steamed white rice Slow braised Pork shoulder w/green chili sauce House BBQ Baked Salmon Chicken Diane w/brandy sauce Sage marinated Lamb top round w/mission fig chutney Crispy fried shrimp Cedar Key Clams Mussels steamed in lager beer, garlic & shallots Lobster bisque Seafood Bar Peel & Eat Shrimp Oysters on the Half Shell Sashimi Tuna Smoked Salmon Sushi An array of sides, salads, hors doeuvres and traditional desserts including pies, cakes, cookies, ice cream & more!$2995Adults $1395children 3-10Shephards Waterfront Restaurant619 S. Gulfview Blvd., Clearwater Beach 727-441-6875 www.shephards.com 120612Reservations Strongly RecommendedFree Valet Parking Buffet Enjoy Christmas Dinner ... Just steps from the beach!490 Mandalay Ave., Clearwater BeachEntrees starting at $18.95 Served from 2pm to closeRegular menu also available all day Reservations:727-442-3684or online atwww.clearskycafe.com120612Purchase $100 in gift certificates & receive a free $20 gift certificate AppetizersStone Crab Duck Confit with pomegranate reduction, frisee and lavish crackerEntreesTurkey or Ham Dinner Served with all the trimmings Prime Rib with Au Jus Rosemary Lamb Lollipops With fresh mint demi Twin Tails Broiled with drawn butter Pecan Crusted Diver Scallops With caramelized brandy apples, toasted pancettaAnd Other Chefs Specials DessertPumpkin Pie Open for Breakfast till 1:00pm Our Famous Bloody Mary Bar till 2:00pm Live Music 10am-1pm 7-10pm

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10A Pet Connection Leader, December 6, 2012 110812B 120612 Trusted, Gentle and Compassionate Dental Care for Over 20 Years168 S. Clearwater-Largo Road, Largo 102512 www.SolarDentistry.com Like us for a chance to win an iPad! Facebook.com/NealSolarDMD Village Plaza1901 West Bay Dr., Largo581-3637www.WestbayClippers.com Great Everyday PricesYour Choice$3500 Redken Perm, Cut and Style Color, Cut and Style Partial Foil Highlights Cap Frost and CutOffer Expires 12-31-12 BLB WEST BAY LADIES HAIRCUT$895 MENS HAIRCUT$875 Clippers120612 Telling our readers about local business since 1977.Phone Don Minie at 727-409-5252 or email mminie5382@aol.com Read All About Local Businesses in This Column. Know Who Youre Dealing With And What They Can do For You! DO YOU KNOW THE DIFFERENCE? Anyone can call themselves a tax preparer or a financial planner. But only certified individuals meet rigorous education and experience requirements plus annual continuing education to stay current with the latest tax changes. Also, Fee Only Planners dont get commissions! Fees are for the unbiased advice they give and the plan created. Commission-based planners are paid by the companies whose products they sell. Diane Kost will help you develop a plan appropriate to your financial goals. As a Certified Public Accountant since 1985 specializing in small business owners and international clients, Diane Kost is experienced in all aspects of personal and corporate income taxes. As both CPA and a CFP she is uniquely qualified to provide expertise to attorneys and executors with court required accounting and trust tax returns. She guides clients through a full range of business and personal tax planning that minimize your tax liabilities, maximize your cash flow, and keep you on track to your financial goals. Her office is on the 3rd floor of the 150 Building (by City Hall) in Madeira Beach. Phone: 727-399-0385.You can enjoy the kitchen and bathroom of your dreams while you wait for a better selling market. You may be so happy with the results you will never want to sell. Advanced Custom Cabinets & Trim, Inc. is a licensed Florida contractor for both residential and commercial work. (License # C-10461.) This company was established in 2009 by James A. Tony Warren. After the passing of his long time employer, Advanced Products, Tony built a modern showroom at the same location which has provided his long term customers, employees and suppliers with continuity. Over 30 years of remodeling experience have given Tony the skills necessary to grow Advanced Custom Cabinets and to keep it competitive in todays market. Youll find Tuscan, Southwestern American, Traditional, Rustic and Contemporary styles as well as many others. Visit www.advancedcustomcabinets&triminc.com to see some of the quality materials and products available. Providers of cabinet designs for kitchens, laundry rooms, bathrooms, media centers, home offices, libraries and more. Dont settle for home improvement box cabinets Let them Build your Made to Measurement Cabinets Call Tony Warren at 727-392-1676 ADVANCED CABINETS & TRIM Inc. Located at 11060 70th Ave. Seminole.ACTION JACKSON BUYS HOUSES, INC is a multi service company that BUYS, REPAIRS, MARKETS, and SELLS HOMES. They work with Sellers who do not want to wait six months to market, sell, repair, renovate, or pay real estate commissions. They work with buyers who want to move into the property quickly. Do you own an unwanted house and need to sell quickly? Need to sell to avoid foreclosure? Sell a sinkhole house? Action Jackson has a Solution. SELL YOUR PROPERTY TO THEM! Any condition, price range or situation. They are Not Realtors and are not associated with any agency. They do not want listings; they want to buy your house and may be able to do so immediately! Their Mission is: To Transform Lives Through Affordable Housing. To Empower Families And Individuals To Enjoy The American Dream of Homeownership. Call today for a FREE confidential, no obligation, consultation to learn how they can buy your house in 7 days or less! For more information or to fill out the Seller Questionnaire visit www.actionjacksonbuyshouses.com Phone 727-669-0287 or Free 24 Hr/Msg. 877-463-6546 x 9200 .EXPRESS CARE is Quick Easy Affordable! Full Service Oil Change $16.99! Includes Free Engine Light CheckYou will receive unbiased, expert advice when dealing with KOST CONSULTING. A Fee Only Certified Financial Planner and CPA.For Present Enjoyment and to add Future Value to your home call: ADVANCED CABINETS & TRIM, Inc.ACTION JACKSON BUYS & SELL HOMES FAST-FRIENDLY-FLEXIBLE! CALL: 727-669-0287120612Owner of Kost Consulting, Diane Kost, is a Certified Public Accountant, Certified Financial Planner, and Certified QuickBooks Pro Advisor.When you bring your vehicle to this Express Care you can be sure of quick and easy service that will keep your car running at top performance. Service manager, Roberto Severino, and his expert technicians will not only change your oil and filter, they will perform a complete preventive maintenance check, and add up to 5 Qts. Of Motor Oil. Valvoline Motor Oil will guarantee your engine up to 300,000 miles, offering 3 different levels of protection. Visit the website: www.expresscare.com (choose the Pinellas Park on the map) to learn about the best choice of motor oil for your vehicle and situation. Also see products, and coupons available. Your local Express Care experts are located at 6501 66th St. N. in Pinellas Park. Open: M-F 8am-6pm, Sat. 8am 5pm and Sunday 10am-4pm. They are now offering a Full Service Oil Change for ONLY $ 16.99 reg. price is $ 25.99 ( when you present this ARTICLE ) Call Express Care at: 727-548-0612. They are committed to k eeping you safe on the road.They can build anything you can dream!American Medical Transporters, Inc. ( AMT) is a Licensed BIO waste transporter providing service to Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando, and Hillsborough areas. Biomedical waste is defined as anything that can be harmful or infectious to humans or the environment. AMT is concerned for the environment and our beautiful state and they have 4 generations in the area, AMT was founded in Largo, Fl. In 1988 by Theresa Drake, present owner and CEO. Theresa is also a member of Pinellas County Osteopathic Medical Society, and FEMA. She supports the local artists as a member of Largo Cultural Center, Mahaffey and Tampa Performing Arts. With 25 years of knowledge and experience AMT has proven to be a company of excellence, integrity and loyalty to its clients. Service extends to crime scenes, health organizations, clinics, and funeral homes, and veterinary clinics, just to name a few. Please call 727-538-2500 for q uote. Or visit the web site www.amtransporters.com Happy Holidays TO ALL OUR NEI G HBORS AND CLIENTS.American Medical Transporters, Inc. works with locals, doctors & police to ensure proper cleanup and deter unsafe disposal of biomedical waste. Owner and CEO, Theresa DrakeSteven L. Jackson (aka Action Jackson Tampa Bay Real Estate Investor, Business Automation Expert, and Certified Trainer is involved in all aspects of residential real estate. Looking for a home BrunoBruno is a Canaan dog, which is an old breed that has been used in herding and mine detection. They are loyal dogs, and Bruno is 7 years old, weighing 40 pounds. He is housetrained and good with other dogs, but his owners moved and could not take him along. Bring this article with you to Animal Services and adopt Bruno for only $25. Visit him at 12450 Ulmerton Road, Largo, call 582-2600 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/animalservices/petfind.htm. BillyBilly is a 10-month-old, 20-pound male beagle mix. He is obedient and curious and is as sweet as he is handsome. Billy has been neutered, vaccinated and microchipped. To learn more about Billy and other adoptable animals, call Pet Pal Animal Shelter at 328-7738, visit 405 22nd St. S., St. Petersburg, or visit www.petpalanimalshelter.com.TylerTyler is a domestic shorthair 2-year-old brown tabby. He is a sweet and gentle cat who would do well with one other friendly feline. He is declawed on his front paws, is neutered and current on his vaccinations. If interested, call pat at Second Chance for Strays, Inc. at 535-9154 or visit www.secondchanceforstrays. petfinder.com.Little JackLittle Jack is a 5-year-old rat terrier who was rescued from Anniston, Ala., where he was scheduled to be euthanized due to overcrowding. He is a fun little guy who has lots of energy. He gets along well with kids and other dogs but has not been tested with cats yet. To learn more about Little Jack, call the Suncoast Animal League at 786-1330.AnnieAnnie is a beautiful, green-eyed patch tabby with orange, black and white fur. She has a fun personality and loves sweet potatoes. She loves everyone, including other cats and dogs. This sweetheart craves attention and sleeps on the pillow next to her favorite human. She would be a wonderful addition to a family seeking a great, young cat. She has been spayed, microchipped and is current on her shots. Call her foster mom at Save Our Strays at 545-1116 or visit www.saveourstraysinc.com.DrakeDrake is a 6-year-old miniature pinscher mix who is waiting for his forever home. This sweet boy has the energy and playfulness as a puppy. Come meet him at the Humane Society of Pinellas and fall in love. Visit the Humane Society of Pinellas at 3040 S.R. 590, Clearwater. Call 797-7722 or visit www.humanesocietyofpinellas.org.

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Pet notesPet Connection 11A Leader, December 6, 2012 13401 Indian Rocks Road, Largo 727-562-2080Serenity GardensMemorial Park Sturgeon Memorial Rose GardenMOSS FEASTERFUNERAL HOMES MemorialYou Are Cordially Invited To Attend Our Annual Saturday, December 8th at 7pmDuring this most joyous holiday season, thousands of luminaries will be placed on the cemetery grounds dedicated to the memory of loved ones. Light refreshments will be served. Enjoy the Sounds of the Holiday Season. We are a collection station for 112912 120612 Clyde H. Moreland, M.D. Jenny Chamblain, M.D. Myung-Joo Handelman, ARNP, NP-C Peggi L. Lalor, ARNPBoard Certified Physicians & Nurse Practitioners110112Nous Parlons Franais!We speak 7 languages including sign language.Bay Area Medical 112212 Capt. Barky debuts at Pinellas Paws CauseLARGO Capt. Barky makes his debut at the second annual Pinellas Paws Cause Holiday Celebration Saturday, Dec. 8, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Animal Services, 12450 Ulmerton Road in Largo. The Animal Services festivities feature Radio Disney, photos with Santa Paws, face painting, dogs on stage and more. Highlights include: Capt. Barky, the new ambassador of Pinellas County Animal Services, making his debut at the event as he begins his hunt for loving families who can give dogs and cats a home. The SPCA Tampa Bay, Humane Society of Pinellas and more than 14 rescue groups with adoption dogs and information. Dogs On-Stage, spotlighting adoptable shelter pets showing their beauty. Music by Radio Disney, childrens face painting, a demonstration with K-9 Officer Bobby Cahoon at noon, dog washes, obedience dog training and free drawings. Food trucks, including Chef Michaels food truck for dogs. Anna Hamilton painting pre-ordered pet portraits as part of the Pinellas Paws Cause mural in the lobby of Animal Services. The normal price of each portrait is $100, with $25 donated to the Animal Welfare Trust Fund. Any portraits that are pre-ordered and painted during the holiday event will be for a special event price of $75, with $25 donated to the trust fund. Pre-orders must be received by Friday, Dec. 7. Gift certificates for pet portraits also will be available the day of the event for the $75 special event price. Email her at muralsformutts@gmail.com or call 902-1671. Photos with Santa Paws, a perennial favorite, for $5 a photo by photographer Ron Grecco. Pets and families of pets are welcome. All proceeds will be donated to the Pinellas Paws Cause. More than 50 vendors with crafts and specialty pet-themed items, pet services and animal-related products. Florida Blood Services will be on site for those whose generosity extends to humans. Anyone who donates blood will receive a free microchip for their pet. Special price of $5 rabies shots and a $20 adoption. Anyone who adopts a dog or cat on this day also will receive a free gift basket to take home with their new furry friend. All dogs and cats that are offered for adoption are spayed or neutered and have been vaccinated. Licenses are $20. Free training classes are offered once a month for adopted dogs at Animal Services. Graphic courtesy of PINELLAS COUNTY COMMUNICATIONSCaptain Barky debuts at Pinellas Paws Cause.All proceeds from Pinellas Paws Cause benefits the Animal Welfare Trust Fund, which goes directly to the animals in the adoption center, providing direct-care items such as medicine, specialty dietary food and comfort toys. These items enhance the animals physical and emotional well-being, which increases their chances for a successful adoption. Please keep your pet on a leash while visiting. For more information, call 582-2600 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/animalservices.SPCA seeks donationsLARGO The animals at SPCA Tampa Bay need towels, sheets, brown paper bags, newspapers and empty paper towel rolls. Donations may be dropped off at 9099 130th Ave. N. For information, visit www.SP CATampaBay.org.Dog training class setLARGO A free dog training class will be offered Saturday, Jan. 5, 10 a.m., at Pinellas County Animal Services, 12450 Ulmerton Road. Attendees will learn the basics of dog training in a seminar for all who have adopted dogs from Pinellas County Animal Services or other shelters in the county. Topics will include housetraining, loose-leash walking and dealing with challenging dog behaviors. No dogs are allowed at the class. Call 582-2600 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/animal services. Shelter to host open houseST. PETERSBURG A holiday open house will take place Saturday, Dec. 8, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Friends of Strays Shelter, 2911 47th Ave. N. Attendees will have an opportunity to tour the shelter, visit the demonstration table, enter the pet photo contest, adopt a pet or adopt a Chrismoose. Participants will receive a 10 percent discount at the shelters thrift shop for any donation from the Wish List. Call 522-6566 or visit www.friendsofstrays.com.SPOT hosts spay/neuter specialsPINELLAS PARK Stop Pet Overpopulation Together, at 4403 62nd Ave., is offering a $25 male cat neuter or female cat spay through Dec. 14 to anyone on Food Stamps or Medicaid. This special is a $10 to $20 savings off the regular surgery price. Spaying and neutering pets will help prevent accidental and unwanted litters. Cats can start reproducing as early as 4 months and males start spraying and marking their territories as early as 5 months. To sign up for this special and prevent a litter, call 329-8657 or visit www.SPOTusa.org. Angel Tree ornaments benefit straysBookmark ornaments are available from the Friends of Strays Angel Tree. The bookmark will have the name and picture of one of the Friends of Strays shelter animals, as well as what donation is needed to help support that animal. Angel Trees can be found at: Friends of Strays Shelter, 2911 47th Ave. N., St. Petersburg Friends of Strays Thrift Shoppe, 3660 Gandy Blvd., Pinellas Park Boggs Jewelers, 3601 49th St. N., St Petersburg Jims Harley-Davidson, 2805 54th Ave. N., St Petersburg. Call 522-6566 or visit www.friendsofstrays.com. The Suncoast Animal League has recently done several cat and kitten rescues, pulling kittens off of the euthanization list at Pasco County Animal Services; helping elderly residents who were not able to keep their pets; and most recently, rescuing 28 kittens from a local hoarding situation. There are plenty of breeds and personalities to pair with new forever homes. Visit them at 1030 Pennsylvania Ave., Palm Harbor or call 786-1330.Plenty of kittens Did you know Tampa Bay Newspapers print publications are online at www.TBNweekly.com. Look for the Visit TBNs FREE e-Edition today link on the top right-hand page or go directly to eedition.TBNweekly.com. We dont publish every article or photo on our regular Web pages. However, you can see everything in the weekly publications plus the advertisements in the e-Edition version. You also can send stories to friends via email or download a PDF of a single page or the entire newspaper to share with family and friends. If you havent visited e-edition.TBNweekly.com, we urge you to do so. Thanks for reading our newspapers and visiting us online. Send news to Largo Leader Editor Juliana Torres, Tampa Bay Newspapers, 9911 Seminole Blvd., Seminole, FL 33772. Email jtorres@TBN weekly.com. or call 397-5563, ext. 324.

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Largo, FL 33774727-596-9156110112Matt Facarazzo, D.V.M.with this ad NEW LOCATION Advice on cutting your own Christmas treeWe may not be dashing through the woods in a one-horse open sleigh, but we can still have a fresh cut Christmas tree in Florida. The family tradition of going to the forest, picking out a tree and cutting it down is still available to us. There are two tree farms close to Pinellas County: Ergle Christmas Tree Farm and Lazy Lay Acres, both in Dade City. You can get details at www.flchristmastrees.com/Index.htm Besides making memories while having a fun family outing, there are some other good reasons to choose a live Christmas tree. A single farmed tree absorbs more than a ton of carbon dioxide throughout its lifespan. With as many as 350 million Christmas trees growing on 500,000 acres of farmland across the United states, that can add up to 350 million tons of sequestered carbon dioxide. One acre of these trees provides enough daily oxygen for 18 people. That is enough oxygen for 9 million people! Add to this the space and habitat they provide for all kinds of critters and live trees are a sweet deal. Christmas tree harvesting does not upset the ecology. It is the rule of thumb for tree farmers to plant two to three trees for every one that is cut. That means for the 33 million trees harvested, about 99 million will be planted this spring. Real trees also can be recycled and this is a leading reason why many experts agree they are more environmentally friendly than their plastic counterparts. Trees can be recycled into mulch and used in landscaping and gardening, or chipped and used for hiking trails, paths and walkways. They also can be used for erosion prevention, lake and river shoreline stabilization, and fish and wildlife habitat. About 33 million real Christmas trees are sold in North America every year and about 93 percent of those are recycled. Fresh trees also hold onto their needles, have a good fragrance, green color and will retain their moisture content. Moist trees are less likely to catch fire than dry or artificial trees. Keep your tree watered and away from heat sources which can dry it out or cause it to catch fire. According to the National Christmas Tree Association, this industry provides more than 100,000 Americans with jobs, which is good for our economy. If you feel badly about cutting down a tree, you might want to consider purchasing a potted tree for Christmas. Southern red cedar is a good traditional tree choice. Here are some non-traditional trees that would do well in our area landscape after the holidays (as long as they fit your site conditions): Dahoon holly, wax myrtle, myrsine and marlberry. When you get a cut tree home, recut the stump at an angle (more surface area to absorb more water) and put it in a bucket of fresh water. Keep it in a cool, shady spot until it is time to decorate. Replenish water in the bucket often because trees can soak up a quart orBridges attract an assortment of fishA welcome warm-up has brought our inshore water temperature back up into the mid60s, and although its been nice out there on the water, fishing has been a little tough. High-pressure days with little cloud cover mixed with the unpredictable effects of the full moon are surely to blame. With any luck as we move further away from this moon we should start to see better fishing. Bridges along the Intracoastal Waterway have fish of some kind hanging around them and when the trout and redfish dont want to bite, they can really bail you out. Usually we start thinking about sheepshead this time of year; however, with the warmer water temperatures weve yet to see those big schools of sheepshead show up on the bridges. But what the bridges may lack in sheepshead numbers they make up for in an assortment of fish. Everything from black drum to key west grunts and a ton of undersized sea bass, with the occasional keeper mixed in, can be caught on a piece of shrimp fished on the bottom. These may not be the most glamorous catches but they all offer a good fight on 10-pound test and make excellent table fare. This is the time of year when residential dock fishing can be very good. Long dead end canals hold heat and the fish know that. Finding a string of productive docks can yield redfish, black drum and sheepshead time and time again. Think of it as an inshore anglers version of offshore grouper fishing. Places to start looking would be canals that dead end to the north because they get more sunlight this time of year as well as east facing sea walls. Water thats a degree or two warmer can be all you need to find some good fish. Pitch live shrimp on a small hook with a split shot or a small egg sinker to hold bottom underneath the docks and along the seawalls. Until next week get bent!Tyson Wallerstein can be reached at capt.tyson@hotmail.com. Fish TalesCapt. Tyson Wellerstein Christmas tree harvesting does not upset the ecology.more a day. When you bring the tree inside, cut the stem flush about two inches above the original cut so it will fit in the tree stand. Remember to give your tree a drink of water every day to keep it fresh and moist. For more information on Christmas trees see this University of Florida website: solutionsforyourlife.ufl.edu/hot_topics/families_and_consumers/christmas_trees.html Jane Morse is a UF/IFAS Extension Agent with the Pinellas County Extension. The Pinellas County Extension Service is at 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, next to the Florida Botanical Gardens and are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. To speak with a horticulturist at our Lawn and Garden Help Desk call 727-582-2110 Monday, Tuesday or Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. Visit our website at www.pinellascountyextension.org. Growing WiseJane Morse BriefsCorey Fresh Market extends hoursST. PETE BEACH The Corey Fresh Market will stay open an hour later Sundays until 3 p.m. The market offers some of the best local vendors around such as Mr. I Got Em BBQ, Meet Me At The Market Organic Produce, Charlies Seafood, JR Kettle Korn, Lilly The Lash Childrens Books, Cheese Lodge, How Sweet It Is Rum Cakes, Matthews Wildlife Rescue and Katos Plants and Orchids, along with hand-crafted jewelries & gifts, specialty foods and oils and wood and metal crafts. The market also features live music. The market averages 40 local vendors weekly. Corey Fresh Market is located on Corey Avenue in downtown St. Pete Beach. Parking and admission are free. Visit www.coreyave.com.Foundation to host gift, plant saleLARGO The Florida Botanical Gardens Foundation will host its third annual gift and plant sale on Sunday, Dec. 9, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., in the Formal Gardens of the Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road. Admission is free, and donations are accepted. All proceeds will go to the Florida Botanical Gardens Foundation and are used to purchase new plants and trees for the gardens. Attendees may stroll through the beauty of the specialty gardens of roses, palms, azaleas and tropical plants while finding that special holiday gift for a loved one. The event will include more than 15 plant vendors. The foundations gift shop, in the Extension Building, also will be open. Master Gardeners will be on hand to answer questions about plants purchased or on any other plant in the gardens. The foundation will be raffling off a professional, hand-painted rain barrel and holiday sleigh. A food vendor will be on site. Free parking will be available at 12520 Ulmerton Road or at 12211 Walsingham Road.12A Outdoors

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Viewpoints 13A Leader, December 6, 2012 9911 Seminole Blvd., Seminole, FL 33772 727-397-5563 Fax: 727-397-5900 www.TBNweekly.comPublisher/President: Dan Autrey dautrey@tbnweekly.com Accounting Manager: Andrea Marcarelli tbniandy@yahoo.com Retail Advertising Manager: Jay Rey jrey@tbnweekly.com Classied Advertising Manager: Shelly Fournier sfournier@tbnweekly.com Executive Editor: Tom Germond tgermond@tbnweekly.comProduction Manager: David Brown production@tbnweekly.com Internet Services Manager: Suzette Porter webmaster@tbnweekly.com Seminole/Beach Beacon: Bob McClure bmcclure@tbnweekly.com Largo Leader: Juliana A. Torres jtorres@tbnweekly.com Belleair/Beach Bee: Tom Germond tgermond@tbnweekly.com Clearwater Beacon: Alexandra Lundahl alundahl@tbnweekly.com Pinellas Park Beacon: Tiffany Razzano trazzano@tbnweekly.com General Editorial editorial@tbnweekly.comCirculation: L. Shiett Phone: 727-397-5563Obamas victory still in dispute in a Florida courtThe state of Florida, now known as much for election controversies as oranges and sunshine, may still hold a surprise for everyone who thought the 2012 presidential election was over and done with. In a largely forgotten court case being litigated in Tallahassee, lawyers are still arguing about whether President Barack Obama was qualified to run for president in the first place. Attorney Larry E. Klayman of Washington, D.C., a controversial Republican activist, and his client, Michael C. Voeltz, a registered Democrat from Broward County, have refused to concede the election outcome. They are still pursuing an Obama birther challenge in an appeal in Tallahassee. The judges of the Florida First District Court of Appeal have refused to submit the case immediately to the Florida Supreme Court, as requested by Klayman. On Nov. 27 they also refused a Klayman request that the court handle the appeal on an expedited basis. Klayman is advancing two arguments: (1) Obama has never established that he is a natural born citizen as required under Article II of the U.S. Constitution because his Hawaii birth certificate posted online has either been altered or is entirely fraudulent; and (2) Obama was born to a mother who was a United States citizen and a father who was a citizen of Kenya, and to be a natural born citizen a candidate for president must have been born in this country to two U.S. citizen parents. Unfortunately, the term natural born citizen is not defined in the Constitution. Klayman began his legal challenge by filing suit in the state circuit court in Tallahassee in February, asking Circuit Judge Terry P. Lewis to declare that Obama was not constitutionally eligible to run for president. Obamas lawyers relied on an 1898 decision by the U.S. Supreme Court, United States v. Wong Kim Ark, which held that every person born in the United States and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, becomes at once a citizen of the United States. In that case which did not involve a presidents qualifications a cook born in San Francisco whose parents were both Chinese citizens living in this country was held to be a U.S. citizen at birth under the Fourteenth Amendment. In June, agreeing with Obamas lawyers, Judge Lewis granted their motion to dismiss the lawsuit. In his appeal, Klayman is arguing that being a U.S. citizen and a natural born citizen qualified to run for president are not constitutional equivalents. He is arguing that the authors of Article II consulted and relied on a 1758 treatise by Swiss legal expert Emmerich de Vattel called The Law of Nations. That treatise states that natural born citizens are those born in the country of parents who are citizens and that the country of the father is the country of the son. The task of defining who is a natural born citizen could end up before the U.S. Supreme Court. Of course, by then the president may well have finished his second term.Angel Castillo Jr., a former reporter and editor for the New York Times and The Miami Herald, practices employment law in Miami. He can be reached at acastillo@floridavoices.com. Florida Voices Cliff Notes, fiscal and otherwiseWith all the current fuss about our nation falling off a fiscal cliff, Ive been thinking about cliffs in general. I tried to remember the last time I even got close to a real, honest-to-God cliff. For the life of me I can recall only a couple. One of them was at the Grand Canyon of the Colorado River, which is loaded with cliffs. In fact, the whole durned place is little except one continuous cliff. It runs up one side of the river and down the other, with a whole mess of side cliffs. I enjoyed standing on those cliffs, as long as I was about 80 yards back from the edge. One of the things I liked about living in Florida was the general absence of cliffs. Although the state could actually use a few just to liven up the landscape. Florida has a great deal of beauty, but it comes mostly in the form of birds, flowers, beaches, and azure waters. If youve ever driven Alligator Alley, you know how that stretch of highway could use an occasional cliff, just to keep you awake. In lieu of cliffs, however, you can count alligators. Florida has dozens of swamps. Is a swamp more dangerous than a cliff? If so, why arent the politicians talking about our need to keep from falling into a swamp? Which would be worse: a fiscal swamp or a fiscal cliff? These economic conundrums could drive us insane, if we took time to think about them, which few of us do. Ive known a number of men and boys named Cliff. If memory serves me, they have been pretty decent guys. Few of them have been brilliant, but thats okay. Most of the brilliant people Ive lived around have been pains. People named Cliff are usually trustworthy, competent and married to lovely women named Grace or Ramona. If you dont believe that statement, just check it out next time you meet a Cliff. Especially if he is an accountant, banker or stockbroker. They are the original Fiscal Cliffs. Isnt it a bit late for the country to be in a tizzy about falling over a fiscal cliff? We actually fell off the Wall Street cliff more than four years ago. You can still count the mangled bodies and wrecked homes lying at the base of the cliff. Today if you stand in a crowd and toss 20 pinto beans into the air, at least 10 of them will land on someone whos fallen off his/her own fiscal cliff, and who may still be falling. Even in good times, most people live on the edge of a fiscal cliff. Sooner or later we are all cliff dwellers, arent we? And you cant tell who is or is not a cliff dweller just by appearances. Here comes Reginald Wanker in his new Maserati, with his gorgeous girl friend Botox Beulah by his side. Youd never guess that Reggie was a cliff dweller, but he is. If he misses a couple of payments to his bank or his bookie, hes gone. Other kinds of cliffs abound, not just fiscal. One of the most common is the romantic cliff. Millions of couples are wandering around, stars in their eyes, believing they have found the perfect mates, not knowing that their sweethearts may well be perfidious hound dogs who will desert them within a year, taking their bank accounts and the good silver with them. If fiscal cliffs have a common theme song, it may be the wedding march. Oddly enough, many people who have survived fiscal cliffs later look back without regret on the entire experience. They dont deny the horrors of being broke, but they prefer to recall the almost joyous intensity of having their backs against the wall and suddenly realizing that, after they get through this nightmare, nothing and nobody will ever scare them again. If nothing else, Americas current flirtation with the fiscal cliff has forced the two major political parties to sit down with each other and talk. What will come out of these discussions is unclear, as I write this. But at the very least the jawboning between Obama and Congress is better than the mutual sniping thats been going on for the past two years or more. One thing is certain: the economic alarm bells are ringing. Theyre heralding a world unlike anything weve seen before. The USA is no longer the unchallenged alpha dog. Instead, were in a global kennel, with all manner of yapping and snarling going on. Sort of makes you long for the good old days, when the USA and the Soviet Union were the only big dogs to worry about. Isnt it time I dropped these canine comparisons? I think so.Bob Driver is a former columnist and editorial page editor for the Clearwater Sun. Send him an email at tralee71@comcast.net. Drivers SeatBob Driver Its hard to imagine in todays political climate, but Florida fairly recently had a governor who was not afraid to talk about raising taxes. He didnt meet and mingle with the common folks by doing monthly work days like Bob Graham or Rick Scott, or call himself the peoples governor as Charlie Crist did. He just walked around among us. As a major part of his Senate campaign, he hiked about 1,000 miles to the very pinnacle of Florida politics in 1970, served 18 years in the U.S. Senate and then quit because, among other things, he was sick of the constant demand for raising money that is part of a Congress members daily existence. Then, less than two years later, he came back and became governor. His way. Lawton Chiles was different. He called his approach to government more steering, less rowing from Tallahassee, and spoke of rightsizing state agencies, rather than down-sizing. The last Democrat elected governor, he had the misfortune to take office just as Republicans were taking over the Legislature, but that didnt stop him from proposing new revenue sources with names like the investment budget or reality budget. He advanced health care for children, beat Big Tobacco out of billions and spoke candidly of his personal bout with depression. He gave speaking turns to a few average citizens during his inaugural address, spoke admiringly of Czech leader Vaclav Havel, served fresh orange juice to the GOP presiding officers in the Capitol rotunda at the end of a legislative session and mystified friend and foe alike with aphorisms like the he coon walks just before the light of day. He played the aw-shucks country boy from Imperial Polk County when it suited him, but he could follow you into a revolving door and come out first. He frankly admitted he had reached the dont give a damn stage of life: He didnt need the money or power or prestige, wasnt running for any higher office, so he just did what he thought was best.Having raised money and run campaigns, he sometimes said his concept of ethics reform was, if you want a good game warden, hire a reformed poacher reformed being the operative word. If you didnt like it, you could vote for somebody else. A lot of people did. Chiles was reelected by fewer than 65,000 votes in 1994 barely beating a fella named Jeb Bush in the year of the Gingrich Revolution, when Republicans wiped out virtually every other old-line Democrat in the country. It was a second term that, sadly, Chiles was not to complete. He died at the Governors Mansion 23 days before the inauguration of Bush, who made a comeback against Lt. Gov. Buddy MacKay in 1998. An important, entertaining new biography of Chiles has just been written by John Dos Passos Coggin, who spent years interviewing more than 100 Chiles associates to produce a detailed narrative from Chiles boyhood in Lakeland to his death at age 67. Walkin Lawton, published by the Florida Historical Society Press in Cocoa, reads like oral history, rather than biography, a series of conversations with those who worked for, with or against Chiles over the years. A grandson of the famous author whose name he bears, Coggin is a graduate of Yale and the University of Maryland school of public policy. He lives in Annapolis and worked in the Howard Dean campaign for president in 2004, then moved to Orlando to work with the League of Conservation Voters for Sen. John Kerry. Thats where he heard about Chiles and became interested in his unique, colorful career. Coggin found there was not much scholarly research about him, so he approached the Chiles family. First Lady Rhea Chiles wrote a cover blurb and such old friends as former U.S. Sen. Sam Nunn of Georgia, who served with Chiles in Washington and contributed a warm introduction for the book. As most politically interested Floridians know, Chiles was a state legislator from Lakeland in the 1950s and 1960s, when the rural Pork Chop Gang was slowly, unwillingly yielding to the legal and historical forces of redistricting, urbanization and integration of post-War Florida. In 1970, the little-known state senator walked from the Alabama border town of Century to the tip of the Florida peninsula, talking and listening to whomever he met and beating the incumbent House speaker and a former governor for the Democratic U.S. Senate nomination. After three terms, Chiles retired from the Senate and could have had a high-pay, lowwork faculty sinecure at Florida State University. But in 1990, with Republican Gov. Bob Martinez very vulnerable but then-Congressman (now U.S. Senator) Bill Nelson looking unlikely to beat him, Chiles came out of retirement and teamed up with MacKay as the Democratic dream ticket. They limited their campaign contributions to $100 per donor (upstaging lesser-known pols who couldnt afford such virtue), wore Madras plaid, walked around town squares and easily ousted Martinez in 1990.The rest, as they say, is history. Its usually not good for biographers to admire their subjects, but Coggin makes it work. Walkin Lawton is a valuable contribution for students of Florida history too young to remember Chiles and an enjoyable, authoritative look back for those of us who knew him.Bill Cotterell is a retired reporter who covered Florida government and politics for 44 years with United Press International and the Tallahassee Democrat. He can be contacted at b illcotterell@gmail.com We are proud to offer a forum to our readers. Please type letters to the editor (or print legibly) and include your name, town of residence, phone number and signature and mail to Tampa Bay Newspapers, 9911 Seminole Blvd., Seminole, FL 33772. Emails should include town of residence and telephone and be sent to tgermond@TBNweekly.com. We will not print the letter writers phone number. Letters are printed on a rst-come, rst-served basis. They may be edited to correct grammar, spelling and factual errors. They also may be edited for clarity. What do you think? Florida VoicesBill Cotterell Florida VoicesAngel Castillo Jr. Things to think about when you make a 911 callIf you ever have an emergency and need to call 911, every second counts. But it can be difficult to think clearly in an emergency situation. With that in mind, here are seven tips from Sunstar Paramedics for doing what you can to be helpful to emergency personnel when you call. Do your best to stay calm. Whether you are giving your address or a description of the situation, it can be hard to understand the information if you are talking too fast or yelling into the phone. The 911 operators are highly trained professionals who are experts on giving you instructions, whether someone is bleeding, needs CPR or having a baby. They will walk you through what to do, no matter what the situation is. Know where you are when you call. If you are on a cell phone, we may not be able to exactly pinpoint where you are electronically. Know the address if you can, or at least the general location, and offer descriptors (near, next to, across from). Dont get frustrated if the operator is systematic in asking questions. We have a methodical, effective approach in asking questions in a specific order. Know that this is the best way to get the information we need, and that all the questions wont take more than a minute to get through. We may try to have you help the situation, while were on our way. For example, if its clear that an elderly person would be better off on the floor instead of in a chair, we may ask you to move the person. On average, response time is four minutes, and in the meantime, we want to do all we can to help right away. Well offer instructions on how to help without putting you in harms way. If youre not certain about a situation, make the call anyway. We have nonemergency lines available for situations that arent urgent, but if you think its an emergency or could become one, call 911. Also, dont assume that somebody else has already called. Dont hang up. If our lines are busy and we cant answer the phone immediately, hanging up and calling back will place you at the end of the queue. Also, dont give information and then immediately hang up: Stay on the line until we advise otherwise. Dont hesitate to call again if anything changes. If the persons condition worsens, call us back and tell us whats going on. As just one example, lets say that a bee sting initially doesnt seem to be a major problem, but then the person who was stung starts to have trouble breathing. Call us back!Rob Smith is director of communications and emergency management for Sunstar Paramedics, which provides ambulance services for all of Pinellas County. As I See ItRob Smith Lessons from Walkin Lawton Chiles

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Health industry14A Business Leader, December 6, 2012 Nature wont wait and neither should you IMMEDIATE APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE Accepting most Insurance PlansThis silent killer can be stopped. Skin Cancer Can ... Often be painless Be in hard-to-see locations Disfigure or kill if left untreated Taking new aim at skin cancerDermatology Specialists is the FIRST in this area to implement a new cutting edge technology for specific types of non-melanoma skin cancer called the SRT-100. The mobile superficial radiation therapy (SRT) is designed to provide an alternative to surgical procedures for basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas.Now you can tell your doctor, surgery is not the only option.Available In This Area Only At: Heres more good news: Virtually Painless No Cutting Avoid Reconstructive Surgery of Treated Area Very High Cure Rates Minimal to No Scarring Faster Healing Process Very Short Procedure Time 082312 5200 Seminole Blvd. Seminole 392-3376 Announcing The Re-Opening of Seminole Family Health CareFred L. Leslie, D.O.Board Certified Family Practice 25 Years Experience 10875 Park Boulevard Suite C Seminole 727-851-9910Special New Patient Pricing Starting at $75**Non insured patients onlyWalk-Ins Welcome FAMILY CARE MINOR URGENT CARE DIET & WEIGHT LOSS SUTURES, MINOR DERMATOLOGY, BIOPSIES, LESION EXCISIONS ANNUAL PE: FULL INCLUDES EKG, BLOOD WORK & URINALYSIS WELL-WOMEN EXAMS SCHOOL & SPORTS PHYSICALS HORMONE REPLACEMENT MALE & FEMALE AUTO/BACK INJURY ADJUSTMENTS TRIGGER POINT INJECTIONS MOST INSURANCE PLANS ACCEPTED Dr.s Todd Clarkson and Donald Collins remain committed to maintaining the standards and traditions of excellence their patients expect and deserve.our physicians and three Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners work out of 2 office locations. Our East Bay Medical Center offers visits during Lunchtime hours to better meet your scheduling needs.F F2 Convenient Locations to Better Serve You.Oakhurst Medical Clinic13020 Park Blvd., Seminole, FL 33776 727-393-3404 oakhurstmedicalclinic.comEast Bay Medical Center3800 East Bay Drive, Largo, FL 33771 727-539-0505 eastbaymedicalcenter.comwww.oakmed.comMedicare, Humana Medicare Advantage Plan, and most other insurance plans accepted. Todd Clarkson, D.O. Donald Collins, D.O. Ronald Mall, D.O. Roger Schwartzberg, D.O.,F.A.A.I.M. Betsy Parker, A.R.N.P Gail Quail MSN, A.R.N.P.C. John Jarboe A.R.N.P. Marianne Fisher CEO We Wish You a Healthy & Happy Holiday Season FAMILY PRACTICE &INTERNAL MEDICINEFAMILY PRACTICE &INTERNAL MEDICINE 120612 110812 011212 Largo Foot and Ankle Center1680 West Bay Drive, Largo, FL727-586-3668Toenail Fungus?Laser Solution!Request a complimentary consultation!Call 727-586-3668Laser Nail Fungus Treatment kills the fungus that lives in and under the toenail. The laser light passes through the toenail without causing damage to the nail or the surrounding skin. There is a warming sensation and some patients may feel a pinprick. Just walk in and walk out. The laser nail fungus procedure only takes 15-20 minutes. Shoes and nail polish can be worn immediately after the treatment.Dr. Dale R. MonastPodiatric Physician & Surgeon Board Certified in Foot and Ankle Surgery Diplomate of the American Board of Podiatric Surgeons LASER PAIN RELIEF!HIGH FREQUENCY LASER IS EFFECTIVE PAIN RELIEF FOR: FIBROMYALGIA PAIN TENNIS/GOLF ELBOW CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME NEUROPATHY PLANTAR FASCITIS UNRESOLVED PAIN CALL 727-393-6100 TODAY FOR YOUR CONSULTATION Gregor y Hollstrom, DC, 11444 Seminole Blvd, Largo www.drgreghollstrom.com102512 Weinstock earns recognitionLARGO Robert J. Weinstock, M.D., has been named one of the Best Doctors in America for 2013. The prestigious recognition marks the first time that Weinstock has earned this honor. The highly regarded Best Doctors in America List, assembled by Best Doctors Inc., results from exhaustive polling of over 45,000 physicians in the United States. In a confidential review, current physician listees answer the question, If you or a loved one needed a doctor in your specialty, to whom would you refer? Best Doctors Inc. evaluates the review results, and verifies all additional information to meet detailed inclusion criteria. Best Doctors has earned a sterling reputation for reliable, impartial results by remaining totally independent. Doctors cannot pay to be included in the Best Doctors database, nor are they paid to provide their input. The List is a product of validated peer review, in which their peers in the profession select doctors who excel in their specialties. Its incredibly rewarding to know so many of my respected peers recognized me as an expert in the field of refractive cataract surgery, said Weinstock in a press release.Chamber awards Florida Hospital TARPON SPRINGS Florida Hospital North Pinellas is the newest recipient of the Tarpon Springs Chamber of Commerce Large Business of the Year award. Nominations are placed by Chamber partners and members for three categories, including small, medium and large business of the year. Businesses must complete a full application detailing their contributions to the community, how they overcome obstacles in their business, as well as highlight good and ethical business practices. Judges are brought in from outside of the community and interview the nominees face-to-face. Once the application and interview process are complete, the judges cast their votes for each business category. Sue Thomas, president of the Tarpon Springs Chamber of Commerce for the last five years, commented on the judges impression of Florida Hospital North Pinellas, What really impressed them about the hospital is that they have worked so hard with the community, the foundation and the people, said Thomas in a press release. Thomas has served as president of the Tarpon Springs Chamber of Commerce for the last five years. They were really impressed with their passion. Thomas went on to say that Bruce Bergherm, president/CEO of Florida Hospital North Pinellas, and Paul Hoover, vice president of business development, really have an interest in making the hospital work; its more than a job or career. Florida Hospital has shown that theyre here to help the community. Theres a compassion for the community. We at Florida Hospital North Pinellas are in great company this year, having received our award alongside some of our communitys most well-recognized businesses, said Bergherm. We look forward to a new day and a new year of service to our community in Tarpon Springs and all of North Pinellas.Bon Secours named to HomeCare EliteST. PETERSBURG Bon Secours St. Petersburg Home Health Care Services Inc., part of Bon Secours St. Petersburg Health System, has been named to the 2012 HomeCare Elite, a compilation of the top-performing home health agencies in the United States. This is the third year in a row Bon Secours St. Petersburg Home Health Care Services Inc., has received this designation. Now in its seventh year, the HomeCare Elite identifies the top 25 percent of Medicare-certified agencies and further highlights the top 100 and top 500 agencies overall. Winners are ranked by an analysis of publicly available performance measures in quality outcomes, process measure implementation, patient experience, quality improvement and financial performance. Our home health team works diligently to ensure that we provide outstanding patient care in the home to the residents of Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Pasco counties, and I am delighted to see that HomeCare Elite has recognized their efforts for three years in a row, said Karen Reich in a press release. Reich is chief executive officer, Bon Secours St. Petersburg Health System. Lighthouse welcomes new board membersST. PETERSBURG The board of directors of the Lighthouse of Pinellas recently announced the addition of three new governing board members, Marilyn Polson, Dennis Holthaus and Joan Kline. Polson is a shareholder in the law firm of Fisher and Sauls, P.A. She is board certified in wills, trusts and estates and is a member of The Florida Bar. Polson is a graduate of Stetson University, College of Law and has served as an adjunct professor of the course Survey of Florida Probate Law and as a guest speaker at Stetson. Holthaus, is the senior vice president/chief financial officer and chair of the ALCO Committee at Achieva Credit Union. He holds a bachelors degree in accounting from St. Louis University and additional training in financial management from Ohio State University. With a career that spans more than 40 years in the field of banking, and extensive experience in all areas of financial and operational management, Holthaus brings invaluable skills and expertise to the Lighthouse board. Coming from a family with multiple vision-impaired members, Kline is a Realtor with Prudential Tropical Real Estate. Kline has lived in the community for 40 years. Her volunteerism includes three years as a board member for Florida Orchestra, 12 years on the board of Ruth Eckerd Hall and 20 years of community service to UPARC. FBS hosts Film Fan FrenzyFlorida Blood Services will host Film Fan Frenzy through Monday, Dec. 31. Lifesaving blood donors through the end of the year will receive a voucher for a free movie ticket plus a wellness checkup of blood pressure, pulse and temperature as well as an iron count and cholesterol screening. Donors will receive a Fandango voucher that can be redeemed online. Generally, healthy people age 16 and older who weigh at least 110 pounds can be blood donors. Identification is required prior to donation. For blood donor eligibility requirements and for donation locations, call 800-682-5663 or visit www.fbsdonor.org. Business notesSherwood named business bankerST. PETERSBURG Dominic A. DiMaio, president and CEO of Synovus Bank of Florida, a division of Synovus Bank, recently announced that Aaron Sherwood has been named vice president and business banker. Sherwood joined Synovus Bank in 2007 as branch manager of the Bryan Dairy office and was later promoted to vice president and branch manager of the downtown St. Petersburg office. In his new role as a business banker, Sherwood is responsible for serving clients and prospects in the mid and north Pinellas markets and will be based at Synovus Gulf to Bay office at 1680 Gulf-to-Bay Blvd., Clearwater. Sherwood is an active member of the St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce and an incoming board member at Morning Star School of Pinellas. He also was recently accepted into the Leadership St. Petersburg Class of 2013.Achieva contributes to Sandy victimsCLEARWATER Achieva Credit Union recently contributed $1,000 to the Red Cross in response to the recent disaster of Hurricane Sandy. These funds will be used to provide relief and much needed supplies to victims of the storm. As an active member of the communities we serve, Achieva recognizes the importance of assisting those in need, said Gary Regoli, president/CEO of Achieva, in a press release. Were proud to contribute to the efforts of the Red Cross to restore the lives of those victimized by Hurricane Sandy. Achieva Credit Union supports its local community throughout the year and is an active partner with the local education system. The annual Box Car Rally fundraiser provides critical funding to Pinellas County classrooms in the form of classroom grants through the Pinellas Education Foundation. Additionally, the annual Reindeer Trot event raises funds for classroom grants through the Education Foundation of Sarasota County.Executive Inn, Kingfish Grill openCLEARWATER The Executive Inn Hotel and Kingfish Grill and Tap House hosted a grand opening ceremony Nov. 30 at 3580 Ulmerton Road. Pinellas Park Mayor Sandra L. Bradbury took part in the ribboncutting ceremony. Situated in the heart of the Ulmerton Road corporate and business districts just west of Feather Sound and the Carillon Town Center, the Executive Inn Hotel and the Kingfish Grill and Tap House are only minutes from Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg and the beaches. The Executive Inn is a locally owned and operated boutique business hotel focused on providing a home away from home for its guests. The hotel boasts fully appointed conference rooms, glass tower elevators, terraces, poolside rooms, an exquisite lobby and chic modern furnishings. The Kingfish Grill and Tap House earned first place awards in both the Judges and Peoples Choice categories for the best restaurant in all of Clearwater at the 2012 Taste of Clearwater annual competition at Ruth Eckerd Hall. The restaurant offers dishes to suit every palette including the finest local seafood, aged steaks, sushi, more than 30 craft beers on tap and 20 wines by the glass. Aaron Sherwood

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Faith briefs Military accomplishmentsFaith & Family 15A Leader, December 6, 2012 NO MORE PAINFUL, SWOLLEN LEGS OR FEET OR UNSIGHTLY VARICOSE OR SPIDER VEINS!GIVE YOURSELF A GIFT THIS HOLIDAY Board Certi ed Vascular Surgeons Convenient O ce Based Procedures Minimal Down Time and ScarringNew location in Walsingham Podiatry14219 Walsingham Rd., Suite K, Largo. FREE VEIN& FOOT SCREENING(Limited time o er. With this Ad.)4 Locations to Serve You; Davis Island/Sun City Center/Town n Country/LargoAll procedures performed by a Board Certi ed Vascular Surgeon. Ultrasound by registered vascular technician. Most insurance accepted.www.izzoalkire.com112912 Call today to schedule your FREE foot or leg screening in Largo one-on-one with our own physician on Tuesday, December 11727.871.VEIN (8346) 112212 10875 Park Boulevard Suite A Seminole, FL 33772727-392-2247 Accepting Medicare, BCBS, Cigna, United & most insurances Seminole Family Health Center101112Gary G. Holland, M.D., P.A.Inge C. Sanders, A.R.N.P. Well Woman Exams Clinical Breast Exams Complete Physical ExamsNew Patients WelcomeDr. Gary G. Holland, a doctor you can trust. Same day appointments available. 92911 EYE CARE CENTER The Eyecare ProfessionalsEyecare ... Personal ... ProfessionalCataract SurgeryCourtesy transportation from & to home on the day of surgery Thorough Eye Exams Glaucoma Care(Most Insurances Accepted) D. Heather Heath, M.D. G. William Lazenby, M.D. Frank J. Seidl, M.D.2770 East Bay Drive, Largo 727-530-1425 1109 US 19N., Holiday 727-934-5705 www.lazenbyeyecare.com083012 Neck, Back, Knees, Foot Pain Arthritis, Bursitis, TMJ, Sinusitis, Plantar Fasciitis, Sport Injuries Migraine, Neuropathy, Sciatica Carpal Tunnel Lymphedema Lumina Healing CenterOscar Hernandez, AP2903 Dr. MLK St. N., St. Petersburg727-898-5900 GoLumina.com Fast Acting Painless Noninvasive FDA Approved Get Both Acupuncture &Laser for $65!forPainLaser Valued at $130 Exp. 2/28/13120612 Up to 24 Hour Care Weekends, Holidays In Home or Facility Care Medication Set Ups Medication Reminders Hygiene Assistance Companionship Meal Preparation Light Housework TransportationAlzheimers Care and Respite for Family CaregiversBy screened & qualied professionalswww.yourvisitingangel.comLicense #30211274 727-797-8600 081612We also work with Universal Healthcare Diversion Program, Humana Florida Comfort Choice, United Healthcare, Evercare and Veterans Administration. Medicaid Certied.CNAs, HHAs, RNs, LPNs and HomemakersAccepting All Long Term Care Insurance One familys Elf on the Shelf gets sent back to the North PoleFor many families, the Elf on the Shelf is Santas helper during the holidays. The elf, about 8 inches in height and made of felt, comes in a keepsake box with a hardcover book by the same title. In our house, he has only been a source of fear and trepidation. The book explains that the elf watches each day to make sure the boys and girls are being good. At night, while the children are sleeping, he reports back to Santa about how the kids were that day. When the kids wake up, the elf is usually in a new spot somewhere around the house. It is a family tradition for many, and the fun part for the kids is finding out where the elf is hiding. Three years ago, a friend gave us the book along with the elf. I think my girls were 3 and 5 when we got him. We read the book, named the elf and registered him online. That night, the elf started playing hide-and-seek. Well, it didnt last long, because my girls were frightened. We ended up telling them the elf had to go to the North Pole to help Santa and wouldnt be back that year. They were happy he was gone. Since then, we havent had the elf back to our house. That is, until this year. The girls were helping me put up the Christmas decorations and found the elf packed away in a box with our Christmas stuff. They begged to have him out again and for us to re-read the story. My kids are older now, so my husband and I thought maybe this year we could have some fun with it. In school, both of my daughters teachers have an Elf on the Shelf in their classrooms. Their teachers told the students the elf would be watching the class, so the kids needed to be good. My 8-year-old daughter became a little obsessed with our elf. At first, she was skeptical about the elf being real, telling me that hes just a stuffed animal with a tag. But after her teacher brought out the elf in school and told the kids the elf was real, she wanted her elf at home to be real too. She decided she would leave her iPod out and ask him to make her a video. She had seen videos online that other elves had made. She also wrote him a note. That night, she couldnt sleep. She kept waking up to see if he moved, to see if he wrote her a note back or if he did a video. She was a little afraid and excited at the same time. She hardly slept. The next morning, the elf was in a different spot and wrote her a note. She was so excited and couldnt wait for the next night. The next day and night, my daughters obsession with the elf grew worse. All she could think about was this elf and where was he going to move and how he moved. If that wasnt bad enough, my 6-year-old daughter who, by the way, didnt really care one way or the other about the elf played a trick on her older sister. She moved the elf during the day, wrote a note from the elf and even made a video with the elf moving. This really made my older daughter nervous. Even though the younger one later admitted to moving the elf, my 8-year-old couldnt sleep that night Finally, my husband had to box up the elf and ship him back to the North Pole. Maybe we will try again next year. The girls kind of miss the elf, but for now they are glad he isnt in the house.Kadi Hendricks Tubbs, mother of two girls ages 6 and 8, lives in Seminole. Visit her blog at Mom2MomFamilyFun.blogspot.com. Mom 2 MomKadi Hendricks Tubbs Temple BNai Israel CLEARWATER The Clearwater chapter of Hadassah will host its December meeting Wednesday, Dec. 19, 11:30 a.m., at Temple BNai Israel, 1685 S. Belcher Road. The speaker will be The Temples Cantor Judith Ovadia. She will speak of that weeks Torah portion, Vayigash, as it is connected to the memoir she is writing entitled Embraceable World. A light dairy lunch will be served. Members, friends and families are encouraged to attend. For information, call Pauline at 530-9634.Christ Presbyterian ChurchLARGO Tim Zimmerman and The Kings Brass will perform Sunday, Dec. 16, 6 p.m., at Christ Presbyterian Church, 3115 Dryer Ave. A free will offering will be collected. Call 584-8695.Beth-El Shalom Messianic ST. PETERSBURG A Chanukah celebration will take place Friday, Dec. 14, 7 p.m., at Beth-El Shalom Messianic Congregation, 1701 29th Ave. N. Celebrating on the seventh night of Chanukah, the event willVincent Lombardi LARGO Air Force Airman Vincent Lombardi recently graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas. Lombardi is the son of Virginia Adams of Largo.Natalie Sexton SEMINOLE Air Force Airman Natalie Sexton recently graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas. Sexton is the daughter of Judy Sexton of Indian Rocks Beach, and Roger Sexton of Seminole. She is a 2010 graduate of Osceola High School.Jeffrey Leemon CLEARWATER Air Force Airman Jeffrey Leemon recently graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas. Leemon is the son of Jeff Leemon of Clearwater.Armad Moragne GULFPORT Air Force Airman Armad Moragne recently graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas. Moragne is the nephew of Dawn and Mark Foster of St. Petersburg. He is a 2008 graduate of Boca Ciega High School.Leonard Settle ST. PETERSBURG Army Pfc. Leonard Settle recently graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson, Columbia, S.C. Settle is the son of Pamela Settle of St. Petersburg. He is a 2009 graduate of Lakewood High School. He earned an associate degree in 2011 from St. Petersburg College.Ryan Hagen CLEARWATER Air Force Airman Ryan R. Hagen recently graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas. Hagen is the grandson of Barbara Hagen of Clearwater. He is a 2011 graduate of Clearwater High School.Alexander RussianSEMINOLE Marine Corps Pvt. Alexander Russian, son of Holly Jaconetta of Seminole and Phillip Russian of Lutz, earned the title of United States Marine after graduating from recruit training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, S.C. For 13 weeks, Russian stayed committed during some of the worlds most demanding entry-level military training in order to be transformed from civilian to Marine instilled with pride, discipline and the corps values of honor, courage and commitment. Training subjects included close-order drill, marksmanship with an M-16A4 rifle, physical fitness, martial arts, swimming, military history, customs and courtesies. One week prior to graduation, Russian endured The Crucible, a 54hour final test of recruits minds and bodies. Upon completion, recruits are presented the Marine Corps emblem and called Marines for the first time. Russian is a 2011 graduate of Seminole High School.Leslie Colon-Melendez SEMINOLE Air Force Reserve Airman Leslie Colon-Melendez recently graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas. Colon-Melendez is the daughter of Edwin Colon of Seminole. She is a 2011 graduate of Bethel High School, Spanaway, Wash.Michael Brockett SEMINOLE Air Force Airman Michael Brockett recently graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas. Brockett earned distinction as an honor graduate. He is the son of Suzanne Brockett of Seminole, and grandson of Gwen Brockett of Ooltewah, Tenn. The airman is a 2010 graduate of Southport High School, Indianapolis, Ind.Marques Moore ST. PETERSBURG Army Pvt. Marques Moore recently graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson, Columbia, S.C. Moore is the son of Esther Moore of St. Petersburg. He is a 2003 graduate of Dixie Hollins High School. include the lighting of the 10-foot menorah as well as potato latkes, Chanukah songs, dancing and games. Attendees may bring their own menorah and candles for the united lighting ceremony. All are welcome and admission is free. Call 345-7777 or visit www.Jewishheritage.net.Temple Bnai IsraelCLEARWATER Stompin at the Savoy will take place Saturday, Jan. 5, 7:30 p.m., at Temple Bnai Israel, 1685 S. Belcher Road. This celebration of the new year will feature live music, including a mix of well-known melodies from New York City ballrooms and Dixieland jazz favorites. Cost is $18 and includes complimentary noshes. RSVP is required by Dec. 31. To RSVP, call 531-5829 or Linda Goldman at 458-3265.Cornerstone Community Church ST. PETERSBURG A 13-week grief support group will meet Fridays, Jan. 4 through March 29, 10 a.m. to noon, at Cornerstone Community Church, 6745 38th Ave. N. For more information, call 3437747. Jackson Healy, 5, shows some of the 330 food items that the preschool at St. Jerome Early Childhood Center collected and then donated to Lifeline Ministries, a parish ministry at St. Jerome Catholic Church.Food drive Bagel menorah lighting setCLEARWATER Chabad of Clearwater will ignite the first ever bagel menorah in the USA, followed by a community celebration on the fourth night of Hanukkah, Tuesday, Dec. 11, 6 p.m., in front of the Surf Style Mega Store, 311 S. Gulfview Blvd. There will be a 7-foot-tall bagel menorah on Beach Walk, and following the ceremony, people will dance, sing and eat the night away. There will be donuts, hot latkes, Dreidels and chocolate Hanukkah gelt. There will be a special performance by Dallas the Fire Guy. The event is free and open to the public. The menorah serves as a symbol of Clearwaters dedication to preserve and encourage the right and liberty of all its citizens to worship God freely, openly and with pride, said Rabbi Levi Hodakov, director of Chabad of Clearwater. Specifically in America, a nation that was founded upon and vigorously protects the right of every person to practice his or her religion free from restraint and persecution, the menorah takes on profound significance, embodying both religious and constitutional principles.

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16A Holidays Leader, December 6, 2012 WHY SETTLE FOR CITIZENS?Homeowners Canceled or Premium Increased? 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Lic. #MRSA1774 Aging with Dignity WorkshopDecember 6, 2012 3pm 5pm Limited SeatingCall Gail to Reserve @ 568-6694 Guest Speaker: Helen Marie Lee, Realtor CEO, Wise Wealth Management112912 Estate Planning Checkup Power of Attorney Update Medicaid and Veterans Benefits Assistance for Care Givers FREE to Public (727) 397-55718640 Seminole Blvd., Seminole, FL Helen Marie Lee BANKRUPTCY LAW Free Consultation Save Your Home Eliminate Credit Card Debt Stop Creditor Harassment Obtain a Fresh Start Affordable Attorneys Fee Colin A. Colgan, Esq.ccolgan@dhstc.com 8640 Seminole Boulevard Seminole, FL 33772Weekend & Evening Appointments Available.060712397-5571 We are a debt relief agency. We help people le for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code. helpforyourdebts.com 112912 Whats Sellingin Pinellas County120612 Bal Harbour, a gated community with tennis courts, volleyball, and grilling area overlooking the pond. Corner condo has a pond view from the spacious balcony and has been nicely maintained and updated.Sandy HartmannRealty Executives/Adamo Largo 1 Bedroom/1 Bath $50,000 SOLD 4BR split level Seminole pool home! Over 2,600 sq. ft. with a huge 1/4 acre fenced yard. Easy walk to Seminole schools. Impeccable condition with many upgrades and a spacious 3 car garage. SOLD in less than 30 days!Rich RippetoeColdwell Banker/Sun Vista Seminole 4 Bedrooms $387,500 SOLD Spacious and open 2 bedroom, 2 bath villa in well maintained 55+ Twin Oaks community. Floor plan features great room plus separate family room with nice storage closet. Its centrally located in the complex with views of the pool from front door. Parking space is directly in front of villa.Sandy HartmannRealty Executives Adamo St. Pete Beach 1 Bedroom/2 Baths $170,000 SOLD 071912Celebrating 30 Years of Professional Photo by JIM LAYFIELDDancers from the West Florida Dance Center, based in Largo, perform a dance routine during An OldFashioned Christmas Parade in Largo Dec. 3.Dancing in the streets HOLIDAYHAPPENINGSDreaming of a white Christmas in Florida may be pointless, but thats not necessarily a bad thing. There are plenty of ways Floridians can enjoy the winter holidays without worrying about freezing temperatures, blustery blizzards and mounds of snow. Here, beneath daytimes sunny skies and palm trees and nights twilight tapestry illuminated with thousands of twinkling lights, residents and visitors can enjoy seasonal plays and concerts, annual parades led by Santa himself and dazzling light shows happening all around the Tampa Bay area. Following is a summary of this years holiday happenings.Largo Holiday Lights in the Gardens, through Jan. 1, nightly, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., at the Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. With more than 500,000 lights adorning the thousands of plants and trees, visitors will once again get in that holiday spirit. Visitors will enjoy a new laser light show as well as lights decorating the new vinery garden and fountains at McKay Creek. A donation of $2 is requested for adults and children 12 years and older. Admission is free for children younger than 12. Refreshments will be available for purchase. For information, visit www.flbg.org. Holiday Traditions at Heritage Village, through Dec. 30, at Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N., Largo. The Pinellas County Historical Society will sponsor its annual Holiday Traditions. Visitors to this 21-acre living history museum will find the enchanting historical houses decorated true to their time period, locality and lifestyle, from an elaborately decorated Victorian home to a simply adorned 1852 log cabin. Heritage Village is open Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Sunday, 1 to 4 p.m. For information, call 582-2123 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/heritage. The Gift of Christmas, presented by the Indian Rocks Music Department, Saturday, Dec. 8, 2 and 5 p.m., in the worship center at First Baptist Church of Indian Rocks, 12685, Ulmerton Road, Largo. The program is put on by Indian Rocks Music Department and features the Sounds of Praise choir and orchestra, along with Indian Rocks Christian Schools award winning Golden Eagle Regiment Band, as well as the elementary, middle school and high school choirs. The show will feature many classic Christmas favorites. Admission is free. Childcare will be available for children 4 years old and younger. For information, call 595-3421. Santa Claus Is Coming to Town, Saturday, Dec. 8, 9:30 to 11 a.m., at Southwest Recreation Complex, 13120 Vonn Road, Largo. Cost is $5 for residents, $6.25 for nonresidents and $9.25 for guests. Registration is required by Dec. 3. Call 5183125. The sleigh has just pulled into town. Attendees will have an opportunity to meet the man in the red suit, listen to a classic holiday story, get creative with crafts, get active with games and enjoy a holiday snack. Attendees should bring a camera as time will be set aside for little ones to have their picture taken with Santa. A Big Band Christmas featuring The 10 OClock Swing Band, Saturday, Dec. 8, 2 p.m., at The Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Drive, Largo. Tickets are $24.50 (add $5 at the door). This show will feature cabaret seating. Call 587-6793. Attendees will experience one of the best 18-piece big bands in the area performing a special holiday show in swinging style. Toes will tap and hands will clap as this band plays swinging holiday music for dancing and listening enjoyment. Visit LargoArts.com. Holiday Show, part of the Sunday Matinee Music Series Dinner and Show, Sunday, Dec. 9, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., at Largo Community Center, 400 Alt. Keene Road, Largo. Cost is $13 in advance or $15 at the door. Call 518-3131. Attendees will enjoy an afternoon filled with a wonderful show and incredible dinner. Some of the areas best performers will light up the stage for this once-a-month production. The holiday show will be performed by the Suncoast Barbershop Harmony Society. Cool Yule Holiday Show, presented by The Hot Club of San Francisco, Sunday, Dec. 9, 7 p.m., at Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Drive, Largo. Tickets are $26.50 in advance or $31.50 at the door. The show will feature cabaret seating. Call 587-6793. Attendees will fire up the holidays with a swinging gypsy wagon trip to the North Pole featuring many favorites and some rare seasonal gems. This dazzling holiday offering has something for everyone as the performers make this season bright with the flames of gypsy jazz. Visit LargoArts.com. Snacking with Santa, Saturday, Dec. 15, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Armed Forces History Museum, 2050 34th Way N., Largo. Santa will be on hand and children will go on a scavenger hunt for candy, enjoy takehome arts and crafts projects, and decorate cookies and cupcakes so they can snack with Santa. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for youths 4 to 12. Call 5398371 or visit www.armedforcesmuseum.com, The Nutcracker, Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 15 and 16, 1 and 6 p.m., at the Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Drive, Largo. Tickets are $22.50 in advance or $25.50 at the door for adults; and $20.50 for students age 12 and younger. Call 587-6793. Audience members will join Clara on her journey to save her beloved Nutcracker from the giant mice who battle toy soldiers. Then, its on to the palace of the Sugarplum Fairy with dancing candies and waltzing flowers. Visit LargoArts.com. Breakfast with Santa Saturday, Dec. 15, 9 a.m., at Highland Recreation Complex, 400 Highland Ave., Largo. Cost is $8 a child and $3 for adults. Call 518-3016. Santa is making his list and checking it twice to see if area children will join him for breakfast. Santas helpers will be serving breakfast, helping with crafts and taking pictures. Preregistration is required by Dec. 12. 12th annual Tutterow Stars of Tomorrow Holiday Spectacular, Saturday, Dec. 15, 7 p.m., at Largo Community Center, 400 Alt. Keene Road, Largo. Tickets are $12. Call 518-3131. The evening will be filled with dancing, singing and much more. The Tutterow Stars of Tomorrow will be accompanied by the Indian Rocks Christian School High School Ensemble, St. Jeromes Bell Ringers and Largos Barbershop Quartet.Pinellas Park Every Christmas Story Ever Told ... and Then Some, presented by the Dunedin Arts and Showcase Foundation; Friday and Saturday, Dec. 78, 8 p.m., at Venue Theatre, 9125 U.S. 19 N., Pinellas Park. Tickets are $15. Reservations are recommended. Proceeds will benefit Metropolitan Ministries. Call 822-6194. This holiday show is a riproaring romp through all the Christmas stories ever told, recounted in fast succession by three funny and talented guys. There will be costumes, funny hats, silly songs and good plain old fun for everyone. See HOLIDAYS, page 17A

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Sports 17A Leader, December 6, 2012 SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE SAVE BRAND NAMES PRINTABLE FREE Start at www.tbnweekly.com 41212 CLICK PRINTSAVE!ITS EASY TELL THE PUBLIC ABOUT YOUR SERVICES, CALL 397-5563 Church And Temple Directory112912L St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church 1955 S. Belcher Road ClearwaterParish Administration Ofce 727-531-7721 www.SCOSParish.orgDAILY MASS: Monday Friday 7:00am Monday & Wednesday 11:00 am Saturday 8:00 am CONFESSION SCHEDULE: Monday & Wednesday 10:30 am 10:50 am Saturday 3:00 pm 3:50 pm WEEKEND MASS: Saturday Vigil 4:00 pm Sunday 7:00 am & 9:00 am(Family Mass)11:00 am(Traditional Choir) 6:00 pm(Contemporary Choir)80510 120612 110812 101112 HandelsTHE MESSIAHPart 1Sunday, December 9, 3 p.m.Free Will Offering Reception FollowsGrace Lutheran Church4301 16th St. N. St. Petersburg, FL 33702 www.grace-lutheran.com 727-527-1168120612The Pinellas Lutheran ChoirDirector Robert Drick Soloists Instrumentalists27th YearCo-Sponsors: Thrivent Financial for Lutherans & The Valparaiso University Guild 120612 Belleair golf star headed for University of Florida By TOM GERMONDBELLEAIR Clearwater Central Catholic golf star Ryan Orr has signed with the University of Florida. Im very excited to have the opportunity to become a Gator and play for Buddy Alexander, one of the finest college golf coaches in the country, said Orr, a Belleair resident. Orr, 17, won the American Junior Golf Associations Florida Junior Championship in June at the Weston Hill Country Club. In May he won the Florida Junior Tours boys 16-18 division major at Innisbrook Resort. He posted the second lowest qualifying total (6964) at the U.S. Junior Amateur Sectional in June. Ive always wanted to be a Gator, said Orr. My sister goes there. Most of my family has gone there. Ive always grown up being a Gator fan. Ever since I was little I always wanted to play golf for them. Orr has been playing golf since he was 3 years old and has wanted to play competitively for the past six years. Thats when I finally started to realize that this is what I want to do, Orr said. The Tampa Bay Times 2011 Boys Pinellas County high school player of the year said he loves golf because it can be so peaceful, extremely rewarding. I fell in love with it at an early age the feeling of hitting solid shots, shooting low scores. Its just really great to me, he said. Clearwater Central Catholic coach Tony Pasquine has been influential upon Orr. Im very thankful for him. Hes helped me out a lot in the past four years in high school golf. Helping in the recruiting process with me. Just always being there for me. Anything I needed, he did it for me, Orr said. Orr plans to study business and golf course management. His dream, though, has been to play professional golf. I have to get through the next four years. With those coaches and the type of facilities and everything, it will probably be the best opportunity if I wanted to (turn pro), Orr said. I just have to look forward to it, practicing hard and keep going, he said. His parents are Bruce and Lori Orr of Belleair Clearwater Central Catholics golfing star Ryan Orr signs with the University of Florida.Thunderbirds team wins conference championshipPINELLAS PARK The Pinellas Park Thunderbirds Varsity Mighty Mites football team (9-1-1) beat the previously undefeated Northeast Bandits in the Suncoast Youth Football Conference Championship on Nov. 17 at St. Petersburg High School. While clinging to a halftime lead of 8-0, the Thunderbirds put it into overdrive and dominated the second half to win the game 30-0. Quarterback Ty Vongvenekeo passed for two touchdowns caught by wide receiver Brenyen Scott. RB Lawrence Tofili and WR Khaishef Edwards also scored. This is the first championship won by the Thunderbird organization in 15 years. Including the playoff games, the Thunderbirds outscored their opponents 186-7 with 11 shutouts. Photo by BRENDA ADAMSThe Pinellas Park Thunderbirds Varsity Mighty Mites football team won the Suncoast Youth Football Conference Championship Nov. 17.Rays extend Longorias contract six yearsST. PETERSBURG The Tampa Bay Rays and Evan Longoria have agreed on a contract extension that could keep the All-Star third baseman in a Rays uniform through the 2023 season. Longorias new contract incorporates the salaries for 2013 through 2016 from his original contract and extends six more years through 2022 for an additional $100 million. The deal also includes a club option for 2023. Longoria, who is deeply involved in charitable work in the Tampa Bay community, will donate more than $1 million during the life of the contract to the Rays Baseball Foundation, the teams charitable foundation that supports youth and education programs in the region. Longoria works closely with the Moffitt Cancer Center, the Tampa Sports Commissions Tampas Got Wings program and the Pet Pal Animal Shelter in St. Petersburg. We drafted Evan in 2006 with the belief that he and the organization would grow with each other and together accomplish great things, said Rays Principal Owner Stuart Sternberg. That is why the Rays and Evan signed a long-term contract in 2008, and it is why we are extending our commitments today. Evan has clearly become a cornerstone player and a fixture in our organization. We are proud of what we have accomplished these past seven years, and I expect the best is yet to come. Evan has all of the attributes we seek in a player, said Rays Executive Vice President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman. His determination and work ethic inspire others around him. He is devoted to his craft and strives to improve himself every year, and he defines success in terms of team performance and achievement. Its exciting to know that Evan will be manning third base for the Rays for many years to come. The 27-year-old is a three-time American League All-Star, two-time Rawlings AL Gold Glove winner at third base and was the 2008 AL Rookie of the Year. After five major league seasons he already ranks second on the Rays all-time list with 130 home runs, third with 456 RBI and fourth with 161 doubles. Longoria is one of 11 active players to average at least 25 home runs and 90 RBI over his first five seasons. In 2012, Longoria was limited to 74 games due to a partially torn left hamstring that he suffered on April 30. Despite missing more than half of the season, he hit .289 (79-for-273) with 17 home runs, 55 RBI, a .369 on-base percentage and .527 slugging percentage. He batted .358 (24-for-67) with runners in scoring position. The Rays were 41-44 during Longorias absence, but went 47-27 (.635) with him in the starting lineup. The Rays scored nearly a run more per game during his time on the active roster (4.8 to 3.9). After being reinstated from the disabled list on Aug. 7, Longoria started 51 of the teams remaining 54 games (26 at third base, 25 at designated hitter). In September and October, he hit .296 (32-for-108) with eight home runs five of which gave the Rays the lead and slugged three home runs in the regular-season finale, Oct. 3 vs. the Baltimore Orioles. The Rays selected Longoria as the third overall pick in the 2006 June Draft, making him the first player drafted under Sternberg and Friedman. On April 18, 2008, only six games into his major league career, the Rays signed him to a multi-year contract worth a guaranteed $17.5 million over six years and potentially $44 million over nine seasons, including the club options for 2014 through 2016. Longoria underwent a minor procedure on his left hamstring on Tuesday, Nov. 20, and is expected to be fully recovered for spring training.St. Pete Beach St. Pete Beach and South Pasadena Holiday Lighted Boat Parade, Friday, Dec. 7, 6 p.m., starting from the Blind Pass Bridge. The parade of boats will head south, ending at the Bayway Bridge. Those interested in having their boat in the parade may call the St. Pete Beach Recreation Department at 3639245. There are cash prizes available and entry is free. St. Pete Beachs Holiday Festival and Boat Parade Viewing Party, Friday, Dec. 7, 6 p.m., in Horan Park and St. Pete Beach Community Center, 7701 Boca Ciega Drive. The event will feature the holiday tree lighting, live music, crafts and a visit from Santa. Attendees may view boats from the event as they pass south towards the Bayway Bridge. Call 363-9245 or visit spbrec.com.St. Petersburg The 36th annual Oakdale Christmas Light Display, through Jan. 3, 6 to 10 p.m. nightly, at 2719 Oakdale St. S., St. Petersburg. The spectacle features hundreds of thousands of lights. This walking yard tour includes an 18-train HO scale model railroad as well as many moving and animated items, inflatable and lit-up figures and displays. There are hands-on games and bubble machines for the kids. The display covers about one-half acre and includes several Christmas trees rising to 70 feet. For information, visit www.ChristmasDisplay.org. Cool Yule at the City, Dec. 7-16, at St. Petersburg City Theatre, 4025 31st St. S., St. Petersburg. Performances are Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m.; and Sunday, 2 p.m. Tickets are $18 for adults and $10 for students and children. Call 866-1973 or visit www.spcitytheatre.org. Santas on a skateboard and Frosty is doing the hand jive. The Chipmunks are having a fruitcake throwdown with jazzy holiday tunes and sentimental favorites. It all makes up City Theatres offering of Cool Yule at the City. This two-hour holiday musical treat is the brainchild of David Middleton and Thom Guthrie. The cast of 25 singers includes 9-year-olds to seniors. Many of the soloists have been seen on the City Theatre stage as well as throughout the community. Moscow Ballet, presenting the Great Russian Nutcracker, Friday, Dec. 28, 7:30 p.m.; and Saturday, Dec. 29, 2 p.m., at The Mahaffey Theater, 400 First St. S., St. Petersburg. Tickets start at $32.50. Call 893-7832 or visit www.themahaffey.com. The Moscow Ballet will perform a unique 20th Anniversary production of the acclaimed Great Russian Nutcracker for a two-day engagement at The Mahaffey. The production will include new Stanislov Vlasov choreography called Dove of Peace, in which two dancers become one soaring bird. Vlasov, a former dancer with the Bolshoi Ballet was the choreographer/ballet master of Moscow Ballets inaugural 1993 Great Russian Nutcracker. Belleair Bluffs The annual Belleair Bluffs Holiday Event Friday, Dec. 14, 6 to 8 p.m., at the Community Center, 2747 Sunset Blvd., Belleair Bluffs. The Salvation Army Band will be providing music. Following a welcome by Mayor Chris Arbutine, the tree will be lit heralding the arrival of Santa. There will be a hayride until 8 p.m. The Bluffs Business Association will donate refreshments. Residents are asked to bring canned goods, boxed food, baby formula, flour, sugar, peanut butter, rice, pasta, or canned juice or fruit to donate to RCS Food Bank. Anyone who brings a food donation will receive the citys annual tree ornament.Clearwater A joyful medieval Christmas celebration, Thursday and Friday, Dec. 6-7, 7 p.m., at Clearwater Christian College, 3400 Gulf to Bay Blvd., Clearwater. Together with the drama department, the college choirs and orchestra will present an evening of medieval music and festivities featuring jugglers and jesters, lords and ladies, and humorous sketches reminiscent of the merry old medieval days. The evening will conclude with a Christmas pageant and a carol sing-a-long. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for seniors, students, alumni and military. Call 726-1153, ext. 0. Simply Sinatra Christmas, Thursday, Dec. 6, 1 p.m., at Ruth Eckerd Hall, 1111 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater. Tickets are $18 and $25. Call 791-7400 or visit www.rutheckerdhall.com. Part of the 2012-13 Adults at Leisure Series, Steve Lippia returns to re-create Ol Blue Eyes just in time for Christmas. The show will blend holiday cheer, memories and jazz/swing standards with the energetic flair that only a big band can provide. Art Trysts Studio First Friday Holiday Emporium, Friday, Dec. 7, 4 to 8 p.m., at Art Trysts Studio, 1190 Kapp Drive, Clearwater. The free event will present a wide array of handcrafted artzy holiday gifts made by a number of guest artists and studio artists such as Donna Frost, Lorraine Ulen, Lee Canalizo, Kathy Fessenbecker and Toni Young. Complimentary wine and refreshments will be served. Call 888-727-1190 or visit arttrysts.com. HOLIDAYS, from page 16A

Leader, December 6, 2012 120612 120612OFFER VALID THRU 12/31/12. NOT APPLICABLE WITH ANY OTHER DISCOUNTS OR OFFERS. ONE USE PER TABLE. PER VISIT. Bob Evans Hearing Center 727-393-3775Seminole St. Petersburg Clearwater At Bob Evans Hearing Center, we want to help everyone with hearing loss to enjoy the sounds of this holiday season. With our team of experienced hearing professionals and Starkey hearing aids, its more possible than ever before. Taking advantage of the latest hearing science and cutting-edge digital technology, Starkey hearing aids are designed to: $500 OFFA Pair Of 3 Series Wireless Hearing Aids Bob Evans Hearing CenterCall us today727-393-3775Not available with any other discounts, offers or prior purchases. Expires 12/31/12 FREE HEARING AIDBATTERIESLimited one pack per customer during our Special EventBob Evans Hearing CenterCall us today727-393-3775Not available with any other discounts, offers or prior purchases. Expires 12/31/12120612-1 THIS SEASON, EXPERIENCEOF HEARING.THE GIFT The holiday season is a merry time filled with social gatherings, family sing-alongs and a jingle bell or two. But for those with difficulty hearing, the festivities arent as joyful as they should be.Call today for your FREEhearing evaluation!

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Diversions Things to do around Pinellas County Classieds Events MoviesLeader Section B December 6, 2012Visit www.TBNweekly.com Relationships may blossom from the most tenuous connections only to evolve into something completely unexpected. In his play Romance in D, Chicago playwright James Sherman examines connections and communication in a modern context, delivering an unpretentious, sincere romance. Romance in D runs through Dec. 16 at West Coast Players Theatre, 21905 U.S. 19 N., Clearwater. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays, 8 p.m., and Sundays, 2 p.m. Tickets are $16. Call 437-2363 or visit www.wcplayers.org. All of the action in Romance in D takes place in two side-by-side apartments. In one apartment is Charles, a musicologist. He lives a cloistered lifestyle, preferring his music and books to the company of others. He keeps himself occupied with his work and visits from his mother, Helen Norton. Next door lives Isabel, a brokenhearted poet on the verge of divorce. After she attempts to emulate Sylvia Plaths tragic end in a suicide attempt, her concerned father, George Fox, makes frequent visits. Early on in the play, it is revealed that Charles inadvertently saved Isabel he smelled gas and called 911. This act provides them with an initial connection from which a relationship may blossom though both parties remain reluctant, keenly aware of the risks involved. Meanwhile, Helen and George also meet and discover they have similar interests. In composing Romance in D, Sherman employs an approach that evokes music. The first act begins with a number of succinct scenes, epigrammatic yet full of imagery. Like the opening notes of a symphony, these vignettes build anticipation. Director Mary Kay Cyrus does a marvelous job bringing this downto-earth story about ordinary people dealing with universal relationship issues to the stage. Its always a pleasure to be part of a show that reminds us that despite our differences, our insecurities and our weaknesses, we can enjoy the simple pleasures of life (music, literature, food and family) and that we do have a chance for romance, laughter and happiness, writes Cyrus in her message from the director. Devon Murray plays Isabel Fox. Murray stresses determination over timidity, guaranteeing that the audience doesnt view the character as a damsel in distress. While Isabels deteriorating marriage may haveTheater reviewWest Coast Players orchestrate mellifluous staging of Romance in D Photos courtesy of WEST COAST PLAYERSStarring in West Coast Players production of Romance in D are, from left, Kimen Mitchell, Brian Harvey, Devon Murray and Mark Myers. left her emotionally scarred, she is not intended to be viewed as a victim in Romance in D any more than Charles is to be seen as a hero. Murray maintains Isabel as wounded but not helpless. Charles Norton is portrayed by Mark Myers. In rendering Charles, Myers deftly paints a reclusive workaholic, a passive misanthrope whose reluctance to form social bonds stems from his own insecurities. Watching Murray and Myers walk their characters through the awkward first steps of a relationship is fascinating. Kimen Mitchell plays Helen Norton. Mitchell is convincing as a woman who has had a recent epiphany: Her life is far from over. Mitchell balances her characters concern for her son with her emerging independence. See REVIEW, page 4BThe actors of Romance in D, from left, Mitchell, Harvey and Myers spend the play in one of two side-by-side apartments. www.SandyHartmann.comProperties@Sandysofce.comThe Power of Knowledge ... The Gift of Caring120612 Sandy Hartmann & Associates has been providing exceptional real estate services to their clients for over 31 years and is consistently ranked in the top 1% of Real Estate agents across the United States. 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The whole process was handled very professionally. Dave and Debbie Green 120612 The Florida Orchestra: Schuberts Symphony No. 9; Friday, Dec. 7, 8 p.m., at the Straz Center, 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa; Saturday, Dec. 8, 8 p.m., at The Mahaffey, 400 First St. S., St. Petersburg; and Sunday, Dec. 9, 7:30 p.m., at Ruth Eckerd Hall, 1111 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater. Xavier Phillips performs Prokofievs landmark cello work Sinfonia Concertante contrasting its fiendishly difficult soloist passages with hauntingly eloquent interplay with the orchestra ... in an evening that also features Schuberts noble and majestic Symphony No. 9, The Great. Julian Kuerti conducts. Death by Chocolate, presented by Largo Rotary Club, Friday, Dec. 7, 7 p.m., at Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Drive, Largo. Tickets are $20 a person in advance or $25 the day of the event. Call 587-6793. Continuing a delicious tradition, the Rotary Club of Largo will present mouth-watering delicacies and desserts created by the areas top restaurants. This chocolate heaven will tempt taste buds while music from local artists fill the evening with holiday sounds. This annual fundraiser benefits local youth. Geoff Tate, the voice of Queensrche, Saturday, Dec. 8, 7:30 p.m., at the Capitol Theatre, 405 Cleveland St., Clearwater. Tickets start at $25. Call 791-7400 or visit www.atthecap.com. Tate the multi-platinum selling, Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter will bring his latest solo tour to the Capitol Theatre. Tate is best known as the creative and driving force behind the progressive metal band Queensrche. The world has changed a lot in the decade since Tates self-titled solo debut in 2002, and nowhere is that more evident than on Kings & Thieves, released on Nov. 6. Only the second solo album of a legendary career that spans four decades, the album is a journey into the mind of one of rocks most dynamic vocalists. Hot Club San Francisco, Sunday, Dec. 9, 7 p.m., at Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Drive, Largo. Tickets are $26.50 in advance or $31.50 at the door. Call 587-6793 or visit www.largoarts.com. Fire up the holidays with a swinging gypsy wagon trip to the North Pole featuring many favorites and some rarer seasonal gems. This dazzling holiday performance has something for everyone. Make this season bright with flames of gypsy jazz. Iris DeMent, Sunday, Dec. 9, 7:30 p.m., at the Capitol Theatre, 405 Cleveland St., Clearwater. Tickets start at $36.50. Call 791-7400 or visit www.atthecap.com. One of the most celebrated country-folk performers of her day is back for the first time since 2007. Singer-songwriter Iris DeMent became known for her pure, evocative vocal style and spare, heartfelt, introspective and deeply personal songcraft on Infamous Angel and My Life. The Way I Should reveals her fiercely political side, tackling a variety of topics. Top ve diversions Top ve diversions Photo by CELINE NIESZAWER/ THE FLORIDA ORCHESTRACellist Xavier Phillips joins The Florida Orchestra for a performance of Prokofievs Sinfonia Concertante Dec. 7-9. Photo by PIETA BROWN/ SHORE FIRECapitol Theatre welcomes Iris DeMent on Dec. 9. Curtain CallLee Clark Zumpe

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2B Just for Fun Leader, December 6, 2012 727-595-2095DECEMBERGOLFSPECIAL 18 HOLES 18 Hole Par 6110 Play Tickets AvailableBook Online www.BayPointeGolf.net 9399 Commodore Drive SeminoleLunch Served DailyHappy Hour 3-6pm Dinner Wednesday, Italian Night Friday, Seafood Night5-8pmBona fide Chef Scrumptious Cuisine 120612727-593-3900$17 Walk $25 RideEvery Day$12 Walk $20 RideAfter 1pmHoliday Party Reservations Now Being Accepted! Friday, Dec. 7, 6pm Maia & RandyPolynesian Entertainment s, s & s Music FRESH SEAFOOD DAILY!Lunch & Dinner Specials Childrens Menu Take Out Always Available Where The Locals Eat! Certificate of Excellence Award May 2011/201216th & Gulf Boulevard Indian Rocks Beach OPEN 11am 10pm til 11pm Friday & Saturday 727-596-2477 KeegansSeafood.comKeegans Seafood GrilleOutdoor PatioKid Friendly www.facebook.com/keegansseafood111512 Fresh and Tasty Home Cooking! Pinellas Square Shopping Center5151 110th Ave. N.at U.S. 19. Next to Dollar General561-7311Open 7 Days a WeekServing Pinellas County 35 Years 101812Mon.-6am-3pm Tues.-Fri.-6am-8pm Sat.-Sun.-7am-2pm Fish-Fry Friday$100OFFOmelettesMonday-Friday with either potatoes or grits. With this ad.Regular Menu We Wish you a Happy & Safe Holiday Season 120612 Villa GallaceWaterfront Dining At Its Finest!AuthenticItalian Cuisine Two Can Dine For $1999Sunset Menu, Mon.-Thurs. 4:30-6pm Buy 1 Entree, Get 1 FREEat equal or lesser value up to $15.With purchase of bottle of wine. Good Sunday-Thursday only. Excludes holiday eves or holidays. Not valid with any other offer or discount. Expires 12-20-12 TBNOpen, Mon.-Sat. 4:30-10:30pm Sunday 4-10pmReservations Recommendedwww.villagallace.com 727-596-0200109 Gulf Blvd., Indian Rocks Beach120612 One of Tampa Bays Top 50 Restaurants-Tampa Bay TimesLargo Adult and Senior Talent Show, Thursday, Dec. 6, 1 to 3 p.m., at Largo Community Center, 400 Alt Keene Road, Largo. Cost is $5 in advance or $7 at the door. Attendees will watch adults and seniors strut their stuff in this live performance. Call 518-3131 or visit largocommu nitycenter.com. Death by Chocolate, presented by Largo Rotary Club, Friday, Dec. 7, 7 p.m., at Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Drive, Largo. Tickets are $20 a person in advance or $25 the day of the event. Call 587-6793. Continuing a delicious tradition, the Rotary Club of Largo will present mouth-watering delicacies and desserts created by the areas top restaurants. This chocolate heaven will tempt taste buds while music from local artists fill the evening with holiday sounds. This annual fundraiser benefits local youth. Square Dancing Fridays, Friday, Dec. 7, 7:30 to 9:45 p.m., at Largo Community Center, 400 Alt. Keene Road, Largo. Attendees will spend the evening dancing to professional caller Allen Snell. Cost is $6. For information, call 518-3131 or visit largocommunitycenter.com. Swing Dance Saturdays, Saturday, Dec. 8, 7 to 11 p.m., at Largo Community Center, 400 Alt. Keene Road, Largo. Attendees enjoy an evening of dancing and socializing with free lessons from 7 to 8 p.m. and a DJ dance from 8 to 11 p.m. Savoy Swing is the resident DJ. The center boasts a 5,600-square-foot sprung hardwood floor perfect for dancing. Cost is $7 with a recreation card and $8 with no card. For information, call 518-3131 or visit largocommunitycenter.com. Richard Lustig, Friday, Jan. 4, 7:30 p.m., at Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Drive, Largo. Tickets are $16.50. Call 587-6793. Lustig has been featured on The Rachael Ray Show, The Learning Channel, Good Morning America, The Today Show and many other TV networks around the world. He also has been recognized by Ripleys Believe it Or Not. Lustig will share his secrets and educate attendees on how to increase their chances to win the lottery. Tom Rush, Friday, Jan. 11, 8 p.m., at Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Drive, Largo. Tickets start at $19.50. Call 587-6793 or visit www.largoarts.com. Rushs impact on the American music scene has been profound. He helped shape the folk revival in the s and the renaissance of the s and s. His music has left its stamp on generations of artists. James Taylor, Emmylou Harris, Tom Petty and Garth Brooks have cited Rush as major influences. The 5th Dimension featuring Florence LaRue, Saturday, Jan. 12, 4 and 8 p.m., at the Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Drive, Largo. Tickets start at $34.50. Call 587-6793. The 5th Dimension is known for its soulful sophistication and smooth harmonies with a touch of class. The group has received 14 gold records, six platinum records and six Grammy Awards with multi-million selling hits including Up, Up, and Away, One Less Bell to Answer, Wedding Bell Blues, Stone Soul Picnic and Aquarius. Marty Stuart, Friday, Jan. 18, 8 p.m., at the Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Drive, Largo. Tickets start at $34.50. Call 5876793. Known for his musical merging of honky tonk, rockabilly, country-rock, traditional country and bluegrass, Grammy-winning music icon Marty Stuart is now accompanied by his band, The Fabulous Superlatives. He has performed with countless music legends such as Merle Haggard and Johnny Cash, and is destined to join their ranks as one of country musics most influential stars. Audiences will have an opportunity to see Stuarts flamboyant showmanship shine with his band in this one-night-only performance in Largo. The Machine, Saturday, Jan. 19, 8 p.m., at the Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Drive, Largo. Tickets start at $29.50. Call 587-6793. The Machine will perform music from Pink Floyds extensive catalog. Tampa Bay area fans who have longed for a live Pink Floyd experience may wish to check out The Machine, Americas top Pink Floyd show. Known for performing a diverse mix of The Floyds extensive 16album repertoire, fans can expect to see The Machines dramatic lighting and video, and experience their passionate delivery that sets them apart from the rest. Clearwater A Bedfull of Foreigners, by Dave Freeman, through Dec. 23, presented by Early Bird Dinner Theatre at the Italian-American Club, 200 S. McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater. Performances are Thursday through Sunday, with seating at 4 p.m. Matinees are Thursdays and Saturdays, with seating at 11 a.m. Admission is $32 plus tax and includes dinner and the show. For reservations, call 446-5898 or visit www.earlybirddinnertheatre.com. In the classic farce A Bedfull of Foreigners, when two couples on holiday in France are accidentally assigned to the same hotel room, mistaken identities, hasty cover-ups and hilarious situations ensue in this comedy that has delighted audiences around the world. Fiddler on the Roof, by Jerry Bock, Sheldon Harnick and Joseph Stein, through Dec. 16, at Francis Wilson Playhouse, 302 Seminole St., Clearwater. Call 446-1360 or visit www.franciswilsonplay house.org. Performances are generally Thursday through Saturday, 8 p.m. Matinees are Saturday and Sunday, 2 p.m. Tickets for nonmusicals are $21 for adults, $11 for students. Tickets for musicals are $26 for adults, $13 for students. The Kings of Swing, Tuesday, Dec. 11, 1 p.m., at Ruth Eckerd Hall, 1111 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater. Tickets are $18 and $25. Call 791-7400 or visit www.rutheckerdhall.com. Part of the 201213 Adults at Leisure Series, nine musicians and three of the best swing vocalists will celebrate the greatest hits of Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Dean Martin, Bobby Darin, Nat King Cole, Michael Bubl, Paulo Nutini, Brian Setzer and more. Die Hard, part of the Capitol Theatre Film Series, Thursday, Dec. 13, 8 p.m., at Capitol Theatre, 405 Cleveland St., Clearwater. Tickets are $5. Call 791-7400 or visit www.atthecap.com. On Christmas Eve, NYPD detective John McClane, played by Bruce Willis, tries to save his wife and several others taken hostage by highly organized criminals during a Christmas party at the Nakatomi Plaza in Los Angeles. Constantly finding its way to the top of both action and Christmas film rankings, Die Hard was nominated for four Academy Awards and spawned a franchise of films that continues to thrill moviegoers.Dunedin Pioneer Park Fall Art Show, Sunday, Dec. 9, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Pioneer Park on the corner of Douglas and Main Street, Dunedin. See LOOKING AHEAD, page 4B Place a Number in the empty boxes in such a way that each row across, each column down and each 9-box square contains all of the numbers from one to nine.Crossword SudokuSudoku answers from last weekCrossword answers from last week Across 0 1. Wedding pledges 0 5. Detective, at times 0 9. "___ on a Hot Tin Roof," Williams play 12. Correct, as text 14. #1 spot 15. Cornstarch brand 16. Inhabitant of "The First State" 18. Engine sound 19. Fergie's ex 20. Shops that forge metal 22. Book part 24. "___ Calloways" (Disney film) 25. Crash site? 28. Bent 30. Auld lang syne 31. Halo, e.g. 33. Arduous journey 35. Stage item 38. Agenda 39. Curtain fabric 41. One of the two main branches of orthodox Islam 42. Allow entrance 44. 100 cents 45. Missile with several warheads 46. Andy's radio partner 48. Alpine sight 50. ___ Dee River 51. Come to 52. Container for nitroglycerin 54. Substances that chemically corrode 57. Carve 61. Arch type 62. Large in size or quantity 64. Brews 65. Flightless flock 66. Paperlike cloth made from bark 67. Big ___ Conference 68. Eastern music 69. Back Down 0 1. Sacred Hindu writings 0 2. Black cat, maybe 0 3. Fuse 0 4. Tangle 0 5. Toni Morrison's "___ Baby" 0 6. Air force heroes 0 7. Mosque V.I.P. 0 8. Mercifulness 0 9. Carnival boat (2 wds) 10. Acquiesce 11. High spots 13. Dork 15. Maxim 17. Looks for 21. God with a hammer 23. Madcap comedy 25. Perry Como's "___ Loves Mambo" 26. "___ Lang Syne" 27. Person who reacts to situations in an exaggerated manner (2 wds) 29. Emergency supply 32. Ill will arousing active hostility (pl.) 34. Bolshoi rival 36. Cork's country 37. 1990s party 40. Theory that reality consists of a single element 43. Exactly (3 wds) 47. Chip off the old block 49. Implied 51. American symbol 53. Kind of cycle 54. Checked item 55. Deep sleep 56. Wallop 58. Bound 59. Insect stage 60. Boris Godunov, for one 63. ___ Today, newspaperHoroscopesDecember 6, 2012CapricornDecember 22 January 19 Youre wasting your time, Capricorn. People cannot be helped if they dont want to be. Turn your efforts to someone who really does want help.AquariusJanuary 20 February 18 Amazing, Aquarius. No one thought you could do it, but somehow you manage to beat the odds and make a real difference. Invite everyone over for a little celebration.PiscesFebruary 19 March 20 Wonders never cease, and a loved one bounces back quickly. Take everyone out for some fun, Pisces. The trying times are over!AriesMarch 21 April 19 Wish there was another way, Aries? There is, and an acquaintance is key. The chore list grows with multiple events on the table. Divide and conquer.TaurusApril 20 May 20 Lessons are learned this week with the arrival of houseguests. The resolution to an auto issue is clear to everyone but you, Taurus. Why so blind?GeminiMay 21 June 21 Your fitness goals fall by the wayside as your social calendar fills up. Leave it be, Gemini. You will have plenty of time to devote to fitness later.CancerJune 22 July 22 You cannot do it allno one canso why are you trying to, Cancer? Cut back and let others take the lead. Your sanity depends upon it.LeoJuly 23 August 22 There is an art to entertaining, and you lead the pack, Leo. Share your talents with others, and youll experience the true joy of the season.VirgoAugust 23 September 22 Trust is a two-way street. If you dont trust a loved one, how do you expect them to trust you, Virgo? Understand that and your relationship will change for the better.LibraSeptember 23 October 22 Fantastic, Libra. You volunteer for a cause, you put your whole heart in it and you come out smiling. This could be the start of something wonderful.ScorpioOctober 23 November 21 What a pity, Scorpio. You had a goal, you started off strong and now youre waning. Look to a mentor to get you back on track and up and running.SagittariusNovember 22 December 21 Youre a class act when it comes to entertaining, and others appreciate that and look forward to your parties. Do not disappoint them, Sagittarius. Looking ahead Looking ahead

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Entertainemnt 3B Leader, December 6, 2012 Now Taking ReservationsFor Holiday PartiesCatering Available For Lamb Lovers Greek Salad for One $5.95 RESTAURANTCELEBRATING30YEARS! Winner in 4 Categories#1 Greek Restaurant #1 Appetizers #1 Vegetarian Selection #1 Healthiest MealWinner in 4 Categories#1 Greek Restaurant #1 Appetizers #1 Vegetarian Selection #1 Healthiest MealWinner in 4 Categories#1 Greek Restaurant #1 Appetizers #1 Vegetarian Selection #1 Healthiest Meal Winner in 4 Categories#1 Greek Restaurant #1 Appetizers #1 Vegetarian Selection #1 Healthiest MealServing LUNCHandDINNER ALL DAY Serving LUNCHandDINNER ALL DAY Serving LUNCHandDINNER ALL DAY Serving LUNCHandDINNER ALL DAY SaganakiOpa! Tirosalata Zesty Feta Cheese Spread Stuffed Grape Leaves Hand Rolled Homemade Spinach & Cheese Pie Sauteed Eggplant Cutlets Felafel (Vegetarian Burger) Gyro Pita Ribeye Steak & Cheese N.Y. Style Pastrami N.Y. 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MONDAY TACO SALAD$5.99NACHOS GRANDE$8.99 TUESDAY SLICED ROAST BEEF AU JUS DINNER$5.99 WED. SHEPHERDS PIE$5.99 THURSDAY BACON CHEESEBURGER W/1 SIDE$5.99 101812 (727) 581-2640 OPEN 7 DAYSLargest Seafood Market on the West Coast of Florida STONE CRABS ARE HERE!1001 Belleair Rd., Clearwater www.WardsSeafood.com We Ship NationwideEvery $50 Spent Gives You A Chance To WinDrawing December 15 ... Need Not Be Present to Win Visit Store For Details. Catering Orders Included!120612 Since 1955 Captains Fish & Chips Buy One Get One FREE!$ 9.95 ValueWith this ad (Kitchen open Tues.-Sat.)Expires 12-15-12 Enter a Drawing to WIN a New iPad$5 OFFGood 12/05/12 12/11/12 Cannot be combined with any other coupon or discount.with this ad and purchase of $ 30 or more. 112411New Years Eve GalaMonday, Dec., 31, 2012Seminole Elks #251910717 Seminole Blvd. Largo 727-397-7253 or 727-397-4541Cocktails/Hors Doeuvres @ 6pmPrime Rib Dinner @ 7pm Music and Dancing 8pmChampagne Toast and Lite Breakfast at Midnight $40per personOpen Bar 8-11pmMUSIC8pm until Midnight 120612 RESERVATIONS BYDEC.15 Seminole Elks #2519 Presents theHappy Days BandSunday, January 6, 2013 ~ Show Time 5pmLight Snacks and Sandwiches 4pm$12 per person ~ Tickets available in the lounge 10717 Seminole Blvd., Seminole ~ 727-397-4541Tickets to be paid by Monday, December 24, 2012Reserve your table early! 12612 DONNIES COASTAL CAFEServing Breakfast, Lunch, Dessert & More!1511 Gulf Blvd., Indian Rocks Beach 727-278-9559 OPEN 7AM All our food is made from scratch and cooked to order fresh daily!BREAKFAST SPECIALS LUNCH SPECIALS2 Eggs, Bacon & Toast$3.99Mushroom Swiss Burger$6.95Cuban Sandwich$6.95Chicken Salad Sandwich(we bake the chicken ourselves!)$6.95Eggs Benedict w/Fruit$7.99Hawaiian Bread French Toast with Homemade Pineapple Streusel$3.99120612 Outdoor Seating Available Opening this weekendButler, Biel star in romantic comedy Playing for Keeps Compiled by LEE CLARK ZUMPEA number of new movies will hit theaters this week, including the following film opening in wide release:Playing for KeepsGenre: Comedy and romance Cast: Gerard Butler, Jessica Biel, Uma Thurman, Catherine Zeta-Jones and Dennis Quaid Director: Gabriele Muccino Rated: PG-13 Gerard Butler, Jessica Biel, Uma Thurman, Catherine ZetaJones and Dennis Quaid star in Playing For Keeps, a romantic comedy about a charming, downon-his luck former soccer star (Butler) who returns home to put his life back together. Looking for a way to rebuild his relationship with his son, he gets roped into coaching the boys soccer team. But his attempts to finally become an adult are met with hilarious challenges from the attractive soccer moms who pursue him at every turn.The following will open in limited release. It may be several weeks before these films appear in local movie theaters.Cheerful Weather for the WeddingGenre: Comedy and drama Cast: Felicity Jones, Elizabeth McGovern, Mackenzie Crook, Luke Treadaway, Fenella Woolgar, Zoe Tapper, Olly Alexander, Emil Lager, Julian Wadham, Barbara Flynn, Ellie Kendrick, John Standing, Paola Dionisotti, Luke Ward-Wilkinson and Sophie Stanton Director: Donald Rice Not rated England, 1932 today is Dolly Thatchums wedding day, and her family is arriving at the manor house with all the cheerfulness, chaos and grievances that bubble to the surface at such gatherings. Trouble soon appears in the shape of Joseph, Dollys lover from the previous summer, who throws her feelings into turmoil. Dollys mother will not allow her carefully laid plans for her daughters future to be threatened, and as the clock ticks the bride cant decide whether to run away with Joseph or start a new life in Argentina with her husband-to-be.DeadfallGenre: Drama Cast: Eric Bana, Olivia Wilde, Charlie Hunnam, Sissy Spacek and Kris Kristofferson Director: Stefan Ruzowitzky Rated: R Siblings Addison (Eric Bana) and Liza (Olivia Wilde) are on the run from a casino heist gone wrong. When a car accident leaves their wheelman and a state trooper dead, they split up and make a run for the Canadian border in the worst of circumstances a near whiteout blizzard. While Addison heads cross-country, creating mayhem in his wake, Liza is picked up by ex-boxer Jay (Charlie Hunnam), en-route for a Thanksgiving homecoming with his parents, June (Sissy Spacek) and retired sheriff Chet (Kris Kristofferson). Its there the siblings are reunited in a terse and thrilling showdown that pushes the bonds of family to the limit.The FitzgeraldFamily Christmas Genre: Comedy and drama Cast: Kerry Bish, Connie Britton, Edward Burns, Heather Burns, Dara Coleman, Brian through the eyes of Daisy (Academy Award nominee Laura Linney), Franklins neighbor and intimate, the weekend will produce not only a special relationship between two great nations, but, for Daisy and through her, for us all a deeper understanding of the mysteries of love and friendship.Waiting for LightningGenre: Documentary Cast: Danny Way, Travis Pastrana, Laird Hamilton, Rodney Mullen, Mat Hoffman, Ken Block, Rob Dyrdek and Tony Hawk Director: Jacob Rosenberg Rated: PG-13 Waiting for Lightning is the inspirational story of visionary skateboarder Danny Way. The film follows the journey of a young boy from a broken home in Vista, Calif., whose passion for skateboarding would one day bring him fame and a lifetime of accomplishments. Ways drive has no limits as exemplified by his creation captured on screen, a ramp of prodigious and dangerous proportions, across many cultural and ideological boundaries to attempt the impossible: jump Chinas Great Wall on a skateboard. Its a film about how much abuse the body can sustain, how deep you have to dig to survive the challenges life presents, and how high and far dreams can fly. Danny Way has not only proven himself to be an incredibly talented skateboarder but also the sports greatest innovator. In his quest for greatness, Way continues to shape the very sport which helped save his own life.For more movie news including whats playing at local theaters and trailers, visit www.TBNweek ly.com. Click on the Movie News & Reviews link on the left-side menu. Holiday showcase features local groups LARGO Largos Holiday Showcase on Dec. 15, 7 p.m., in the Largo Community Center, 400 Alt. Keene Rd., will feature the Tutterow Dancers, the High School Ensemble of Indian Rocks Christian School, St. Jeromes Bell Ringers and Largo Barbershop Quartet. Proceeds support the center. Tickets are $12. Call 518-3131 or visit LargoCommunityCenter.com.Photo by DALE ROBINETTEAbove, Jessica Biel and Gerard Butler star in Playing for Keeps, directed by Gabriele Muccino. Below, Felicity Jones stars as Dolly and James Norton as Owen in Cheerful Weather for the Wedding, directed by Donald Rice.DArcy James, Marsha Dietlein Bennett, Noah Emmerich, Caitlin FitzGerald and Anita Gillette Director: Edward Burns Not rated With The Fitzgerald Family Christmas, Burns returns to the working-class, Irish-American roots of The Brothers McMullen. Reuniting with McMullen co-stars Connie Britton (Friday Night Lights), and Mike McGlone, along with Noah Emmerich (Little Children, Beautiful Girls) and Kerry Bish (Newlyweds, Red State), Burns seamlessly weaves an ensemble story of adult siblings dealing with the desire of their estranged father (Ed Lauter, The Artist, The Longest Yard) to return home for Christmas for the first time since he walked out on his family 20 years ago. Family rifts emerge, and like with any family, Christmas brings a mixed bag of complicated emotions and dynamics. Alliances form, old wounds are reopened or glossed over, and the possibility for a new hope and forgiveness emerges.Hyde Park on HudsonGenre: Biography and drama Cast: Bill Murray, Laura Linney, Olivia Colman, Samuel West, Elizabeth Marvel, Elizabeth Wilson, Eleanor Bron and Olivia Williams Director: Roger Michell Rated: R In June 1939, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt (Academy Award nominee Bill Murray) and his wife Eleanor (Olivia Williams) host the King and Queen of England (Samuel West and Olivia Colman) for a weekend at the Roosevelt home at Hyde Park on Hudson, in upstate New York the first-ever visit of a reigning English monarch to America. With Britain facing imminent war with Germany, the Royals are desperately looking to FDR for support. But international affairs must be juggled with the complexities of FDRs domestic establishment, as wife, mother, and mistresses all conspire to make the royal weekend an unforgettable one. SeenPhoto by MARK TILLIE/IFC FILMS RELEASE

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4B Entertainment Leader, December 6, 2012 Kids, send us your Letters To Santa!Selected letters to be published in our Newspapers December 13Please use form below.__________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________ __________________________________Include:Name _________________________ Phone _______________________Please mail or drop off entry to:Tampa Bay Newspapers 9911 Seminole Blvd., Seminole, FL 33772Entries must be received by 12/7/12112212 dear santa, 10799 PARKBLVD., SEMINOLESEMINOLEBONELESSWINGSNLB LIVEVIA SATELLITE HAPPYHOURMON.-SAT. 4-7 Every Tue. 6-8pmMAGICIANNew Angus Burger New Lunch Menu Starting at $4.99 Kids Game Room Kids Eat Free Every Tuesday with Adult 053112 LUNCH COUPON11am-4pm Mon.-Fri. onlyBuy One Get One of equal or lesser value 1/2 OFFDoes not include Lunch Specials Menu. With the purchase of two beverages.Includes: sandwiches, salads, wraps, & baskets only. Does not include combos and specials. Dine-in only. Capo De Monte Italian MarketVisit us for all your Italian Grocery & Deli needs8400 Seminole Boulevard Seminole 394-7800120612-2Let us help with your Holiday Get-Together Cheeses & Wines Party Platters Lasagna Baked Ziti Chicken Parmigiana Chicken Piccata Many more selections available FULL CATERING MENU JOIN OUR SUB CLUB to earn FREE Sandwiches! $5 OFFAny purchase of $30 or moreMust present coupon. Dine in or Take out. Not valid with other offers. Exp. 12-30-12 5800 Seminole Blvd. Seminole Open: Mon.-Sat. 9:00-5:30 727-391-0600Tis the CitrusSeason!112212 Fresh Citrus Juice Famous Orange Swirl Ice Cream Salt Water Taffy Indian River Citrus Garden Fresh Produce Fresh Cut Fruit Sections Now Taking Holiday Gift Fruit Orders! A TraditionFor 45 YearsCASUAL INDOOR/OUTDOOR DININGFRESH SEAFOOD, STEAKS, SALADS, BURGERS & MORE!LUNCH EARLY SPECIALS DINNERNew Home of Island Marine Boat Rentals 50 Boat Slips www.thepubwaterfrontrestaurant.com 10 Dinners Under$12.95 Breakfast Buffet Saturday & Sunday $11.95 120612Voted the Best Place to Dock and Dine!Holiday Boat Parade Dec. 23 111512 7924 ULMERTON RD., LARGO 727-538-8915FOOSBALL WINGS DECK & PATIO BARDECK & PATIO BAR WINGS FOOSBALLDARTS GYROSRIBS DARTS WINGSServing Pinellas for 28 Years! 2 for 1s All Day! Grill & Sports Bar 120612Louies Catering For WeddingsBUY ONE, GET ONE HALF OFF! LUNCH OR DINNEROf equal or lesser value. Dine in only. Cannot be combined with any other offer.Thursday, Dec. 6Nancy Ross 7pm-11pmFriday, Dec. 7LilBit Country, LilBit Rock n Roll Country Jake & Jelvis Show7pm 11pmSaturday, Dec, 8DJ Jimmy B 8pm 1amJoin us for the NFL! We have the NFL Package Reserve Your Table Today! All Wings 1/2 Price SUNDAY Restaurant & Lounge 125 Gulf Blvd., Indian Rocks Beach727-595-1320 www .jdsrestaurant.comLIVE ENTERTAINMENT ON THE PORCHTuesday-Sunday1-5PM & 6-10PM& Everynight at the Piano Bar HAPPY HOUR 8am-6pm Cheap Drinks 16 Dinnersw/Soup or Salad & Choice of Side$925 TUESDAY Tacos and Hot Dogs$100 THURSDAY Buy 1 Get 1 FREE Shrimp Cocktail With purchase of any meal. EVERYDAYand underHAPPY HOUR ALL Day & NightIN LOUNGE NOON-4 PMNOT VALID W/OTHER OFFERS Home of the all-you-can-eat Fish Fry EverydayFULL BREAKFASTMENU8am Tues.-Sun.112912 OPEN CHRISTMAS Day REVIEW, from page 1BStarring as George Fox is Brian Harvey. Harvey is ideal for this part: smooth, blunt and a tad pompous. He mitigates the characters forthrightness by emphasizing his genuine empathy for his daughters dilemma. There is an authentic fatherdaughter chemistry between him and Murray that makes the play far more effective. The plays only stumbling block is a dual scene in the second act that involves all four characters engaging in two separate conversations in the two apartments. This split-action dialog is often difficult to follow, and the cast suffered from some pacing issues leading to garbled lines and peculiar pauses. Prop issues specifically a bag full of groceries spilling its contents onto the floor actually helped make the play seem all the more true-tolife. Shermans unpretentious play contains a number of subtle elements that make it appealing to a broad audience. Romance in D boasts an understated assertion that age has no bearing on romance. Helen and George clearly have a lot of living to do. Communication is another important theme. Sherman chooses a poet with a gift for words and a musicologist who claims music is a superior form of communication to illustrate how difficult it can be to establish a connection on a personal level. West Coast Players production of Romance in D is an entertaining and affecting look at the possibility of love and happiness. It is honest in its admission that not every romance enjoys a fairy tale ending in which lovers live happily ever after. Simultaneously, Romance in D conveys optimism, suggesting that those who make that leap of faith may find true love.Playwright to attend WCP performanceSherman will attend the performance of Romance in D on Saturday, Dec. 15, 8 p.m. The playwright will host a talkback session immediately following the show. For information, call West Coast Players at 4372363 or visit www.wcplayers.org.students 7 and older, including college students with current identification. Children 6 and younger and museum members are admitted free. Docents conduct tours of special exhibitions and the collection Monday through Saturday at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. On the second Wednesday of the month, the general tour begins at 11:15 a.m. Family tours are conducted on Saturday at 11 a.m. For information, call 896-2667 or visit www.fine-arts.org. Cirque du Soleils big top production Kooza, through Dec. 16, under the white big top at Tropicana Field, One Tropicana Drive, St. Petersburg. Kooza tells the story of The Innocent, a melancholy loner in search of his place in the world. The show is a return to the origins of Cirque du Soleil: It combines two circus traditions acrobatic performance and the art of clowning. The show highlights the physical demands of human performance in all its splendor and fragility, presented in a colorful mlange that emphasizes bold slapstick humor. The Innocents journey brings him into contact with a panoply of comic characters such as the King, the Trickster, the Pickpocket, and the Obnoxious Tourist and his Bad Dog. Between strength and fragility, laughter and smiles, turmoil and harmony, Kooza explores themes of fear, identity, recognition and power. The show is set in an electrifying and exotic visual world full of surprises, thrills, chills, audacity and total involvement. For more information about Cirque du Soleil, visit cirque dusoleil.com. LOOKING AHEAD, from page 2BThe free show will feature local artists, original paintings, prints and cards, oil, watercolor, acrylics, pottery and jewelry. Email Polly Berlin at Polly@PollyBerlin .com.Gulfport USA Dance, Monday, Dec. 10, 7 to 10:15 p.m., at Gulfport Casino, 5500 Shore Blvd., Gulfport. Admission is $7 and includes a dance workshop, professional and amateur exhibitions, dance hosts and snacks. For information, call 397-5754.St. Petersburg VSA Floridas Modern Skills for Success Art Exhibition, through Dec. 13, Monday through Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., in Armacost Library, at Eckerd College, 4200 54th Ave. S., St. Petersburg. VSA Florida, the state organization on arts and disability, presents this exhibition of 48 works created by students in transition from high schools statewide. These students participated in the Modern Skills for Success residency program which helped them acquire skills to create a computer generated image which can be applied to future employment. Visitors will have the opportunity to try their skills using Splash, the same interactive art making tool used by the students. Call 864-7979. The Art of Golf, through Feb. 17, at the Museum of Fine Arts, 255 Beach Drive NE, ST. Petersburg. The museum will play host to the first major exhibition in America devoted to the popular game of golf, so rich in history and tradition. Organized by the High Museum of Art in Atlanta and the National Galleries of Scotland, this show will feature approximately 90 works by Rembrandt, Childe Hassam, George Bellows, Norman Rockwell and Andy Warhol, among others. Some of these works have never before been on public display. They all point to golfs ability to inspire extraordinary works of art. The centerpiece of the exhibit is Charles Lees The Golfers (1847), the worlds greatest painting in this genre. Museum hours are Monday through Wednesday and Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. Regular admission is $17 for adults, $15 for those 65 and older, and $10 for CLEARWATER The National Society of Arts and Letters is hosting its annual competition for 2013 in the field of printmaking. The competition boasts a first place prize of $15,000. Applicants must submit two copies of five works in relief, intaglio, serigraph, monoprint, lithography or computer graphics in jpeg format on two CDs or jpeg memory stick to the local Clearwater/Tampa Bay Chapter of NSAL. All artwork must be original and completed between Jan. 1, 2012 and the deadline March 1, 2013. A panel of three local award-winning printmakers will select a winner. The local winners work will be sent to the national competition judging in Pittsburgh, Pa., to compete for the $15,000 prize. Local winners will be announced on March 9 at the Dunedin Fine Arts Center with an exhibit. On April 13 at Ruth Eckerd Hall, the NSAL local chapter will honor the winners at the awards luncheon presenting the first place winner with $3,000. The first place winner must be available to attend the NSAL Conference and Printmaking Competition May 14-19, in Pittsburgh. Travel, hotel and conference registration will be paid by the chapter. Applications are available online at www.artsnsal.org. Send applications to Chris Cosdon, printmaking chair, 2164 Sunset Circle, Largo, FL 33774. For information, call 581-7347 or email cosdonchris@hotmail.com.Society announces printmaking competition